Steve Knellinger

Lloyd Steven "Steve" Knellinger, age 77, peacefully entered into his holy rest on November 24, 2025, surrounded by his family after a long and courageous battle with Parkinson's disease.

Steve was born on January 24, 1948, in Bradenton, Florida, to Milton and Ernestine Knellinger. He grew up in Palm Harbor alongside his brothers - Rick, Dan, and Eric. A 1966 graduate of Tarpon Springs High School, Steve excelled in academics and sports, lettering in baseball, basketball, and football. He went on to attend St. Petersburg Junior College before earning his Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of Florida in 1970. A proud Gator, he never missed the chance to enjoy a Gator game.

Steve met the love of his life, Lona, on January 23, 1964, the night before his 16th birthday. They married on November 30, 1968, and made their first home in Gainesville, FL while Steve finished his degree, welcoming their daughter, Kelly, in 1969.

In 1970, Steve and Lona moved to St. Petersburg, where Steve began his teaching career at St. Petersburg High School as a math teacher. He had a remarkable gift for helping students understand and love mathematics. During his years at SPHS, he was the faculty sponsor for the Key Club, coached baseball, and served as the football announcer and timekeeper for basketball games. He poured his heart into the school community. During this time, he and Lona welcomed their sons, Mark (1973) and Jason (1986).

Steve completed his Master's Degree in Educational Leadership at the University of South Florida and served as Registrar at SPHS until 1992. He also taught mathematics as an adjunct professor at St. Petersburg Junior College for 26 years, impacting countless students through his clear teaching and gentle wisdom.

From 1992-2009, Steve served as Assistant Principal at Dixie Hollins High School. After retiring from Dixie, he was chosen to lead St. Petersburg Christian School as Headmaster in 2009. He cherished his years there and played a key role in the planning, development, and completion of the school's new campus building. He retired for the final time in 2015.

Steve and Lona have been devoted members of Suncoast Cathedral Assembly of God since 1977. Steve faithfully served on the Church Board of Elders, chaired the Pulpit Committee, and served on the SPCS School Board for many decades. His faith was the foundation of his life, and he lived each day with a desire to leave a legacy of Christ-centered love, integrity, and family devotion.

Among his many joys were spending time with his family, attending his grandchildren's school events and sports games, camping in their RV, watching his favorite sports teams play, fishing, and golfing.

Steve's life was a testimony of faith, dedication, and love. More than any achievement or title, he cherished his family. He loved them with a profound and steady devotion, finding his deepest joy simply in their lives and in being close to them. He poured into them a love that was constant, patient, and proud. Steve believed family is one of God's greatest blessings, and he leaves behind a legacy rooted in that extraordinary love.

Steve is preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Ernestine Knellinger.

He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years, Lona D. Knellinger; his children, Kelly (Jonathan), Mark (Becki), and Jason (Stephanie); his grandchildren, Kaley (Bronson), Emily (Arik), Zachary, Timothy, Katy (Grayson), Maddie, Ella, and Peyton; and his great-grandchildren, Cadence, Cameron, Madden, and another great grandson on the way. He is also survived by his brothers, Rick, Dan (Jennifer), and Eric, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins whom he loved dearly.

Steve's life reflected the love of Christ in all he did, and his legacy of faith, devotion, and family will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew him.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on December 13, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Suncoast Cathedral Assembly of God, 2300 62nd Avenue N, St. Petersburg, FL 33702.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Steve's memory to Suncoast Cathedral or St. Pete Christian School.