of Leslie, AR

November 24, 1943 - August 16, 2015

Thomas Rex Knapp, age 71, of Leslie, Arkansas passed from this life on Sunday, August 16, 2015 in Hospice Home Care, surrounded by many of his loved ones who will cherish his memory and continue his legacy. He will be missed by many of the people whose lives he touched. Words fail to describe the genuine good in some people and the lasting impression that they leave on others.

Tom was a man who touched many lives in many different ways. He was an educator, a coach, a horseman, and an avid outdoorsman, but above all else he was a man who loved God, his family, and his people.

Born on November 24, 1943 to the late Thomas Floyd Knapp and Juanita Bryan Knapp, Tom grew up fishing the local creeks, riding a variety of horses, and playing basketball with a cast of buddies. He attended the University of Arkansas, graduating with a BSE in 1965. He married his soul mate, Sandra Smith, in 1968 and they began their wonderful journey, one that would produce two children, Brandi Brook Singletary in 1970, and Jesse Thomas Knapp in 1978.

Over the course of his lifetime, Tom was employed in many capacities in the educational system. He was first a teacher and a coach. After earning his master's degree, he worked as an administrator, a career educational coordinator at an educational cooperative, and a career center and vocational director. Tom always worked with the betterment of his students as his top priority.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Sandra Smith Knapp; daughter, Brook Singletary (Eric); son Jess Knapp (Tish); two granddaughters, Sunni Knapp and Chloe Singletary; a grandson, Rexx Knapp; sister, Sally Boyd (Don); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Floyd Knapp and Juanita Bryan; sister, Gail Passmore; and a granddaughter, Cecily.

Visitation and funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 19, at 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. respectively at Leslie First Baptist Church. Graveside services will immediately follow at Leslie Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Don Boyd, Jerry Passmore, Wesley Smith, Wayne Smith, Sam Smith, Gordon Smith, and David Smith. Honorary pallbearers include Don Flynn, Hank Boyd, Wade Smith, Steven Smith, Jason Smith, Caleb Smith, Luke Smith, and Weston Smith. Memorials may be sent to Leslie First Baptist Church or the Leslie Cemetery Fund through Simmons Bank.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Coffman Funeral Home
923 Highway 65 North
Marshall, AR  72650
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com