Emilie Katherine McKnight Staggs

July 18, 1950 – June 29, 2024

Emilie Katherine McKnight Staggs, beloved mother, grandmother, and friend departed this life at her home on June 29, 2024. She was born on July 18, 1950, and lived a life filled with love, compassion, and dedication to her family and community.

Emilie dedicated over 25 years of service to the Vicksburg Warren School District in the Child Nutrition Department before retiring. Following her retirement, she cherished her days spent with her grandchildren and her beloved dogs. Emilie found joy in traveling alongside her dear friend Annette Brown and sharing quiet moments watching TV with her faithful companion, Dalley.

She leaves behind a legacy of warmth and kindness in the hearts of all who knew her. Emilie was described by everyone she encountered as sweet, kind, and caring. She was preceded in death by her father, Edward Roscoe McKnight II, her mother, Jean McKnight, and her brother, Thomas McKnight.

Emilie will be deeply missed but remembered fondly by her surviving brother, Edward Roscoe McKnight III, and her five children: Bobbie Jean Hale (Randy), David Gene Johnston (April), Brian Edward Lick (Leighann), Katherine Lynn Landers (Robby Alford), and Beth Ann Hasty (Steven). She is also survived by numerous grandchildren who meant the world to her: Riley Rimmey (Raymond), Tanner Hamilton, Huntington Hale (Claire), Ray Massey Hale, Addie Rudd (Austin), Corbin Hart (Jacie), Taylor Palmer, Conley Johnston, Lainey Johnston, Abbi Barrentine (Kenneth), Shelbi Hasty, Landon Hasty, Hudson Hasty, Kayleigh Beard, Kylan Landers, and Madison Claire Lick.

A celebration of Emilie’s life will be held on Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 2:00 PM at River of Life Church, located at 4345 Lee Road, Vicksburg, MS. 

Emilie’s kindness, generosity, and love for her family and friends will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known her. May she rest in eternal peace.