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BORN
1939
DIED
2020
Phil Niekro Obituary
Philip Henry Niekro was a baseball Hall of Famer who spent 21 of his 24 years in the majors with the Braves, pitching in a franchise record 740 games for Milwaukee and Atlanta. He made a career perfecting the knuckleball. He won 121 games after turning 40, and retired with 318 victories over the course of 5,404 innings.
Niekro combined his mastery of an unpredictable pitch with his competitiveness on the field and his compassion in community endeavors to become a beloved icon of Braves history - and Atlanta sports history - to generations of fans, many of whom knew him simply as ""Knucksie.""
In a statement Sunday, the Braves said the organization is ""heartbroken on the passing of our treasured friend, Phil Niekro.""
""Knucksie was woven into the Braves fabric, first in Milwaukee and then in Atlanta,"" the Braves' statement continued. ""Phil baffled batters on the field and later was always the first to join our community activities. It was during those community and fan activities where he would communicate with fans as if they were long-lost friends.
""He was a constant presence over the years, in our clubhouse, our alumni activities and throughout Braves Country, and we will forever be grateful for having him be such an important part of our organization. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Nancy, sons Philip, John and Michael and his two grandchildren Chase and Emma.""
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for any donations to be directed to the Edmondson Telford Child Advocacy Center, 603 Washington Street SW, Gainesville, GA, 30501.
Read more about Phil Niekro on ajc.com
Memories and Condolences
for Phil Niekro
75 Entries
Trever
February 18, 2024
PHIL would come to my dads bait a tackle shop a sit around telling stories about baseball an how the big fish got away.Phil was a great friend of my dad. Phil loved bluegrass music every wensday night he was there at the store listening to the guys play music an cutting up with them. Thanks Phil for all the times we shared together at the bait shop.
Trever Schramm
Rebecca Brown
July 8, 2022
In memory of my father Alvin V. Smith a avid baseball fan. And my brother Vince A. Smith who was also a pitcher. My condolences to Phil's family.
Alison Pierce
April 9, 2021
Met Phil when I was 6 at my first Braves game. He was so gracious, he gave me a baseball and personally signed it to me. Then told me to go to the dugout to take a picture. Made me a fan for life. Had the opportunity to meet him several times with my children. He even signed my son’s glove the day he pitched in an all star tournament. The day he passed, my son called and said “ Mom, your hero passed.” He was and my heartfelt condolences to his family.
Ray Orlikowski
January 31, 2021
We were teammates 1959 McCook, Neb and experiencing his knuckleball success he had a few of the pitcher's trying to throw the knuckler my ecpierence with it saw it fly over 400 feet out of the park, apparently it did not flutter! He was a great person, very down to earth even after winning 318 games. RIP Mr. NIekro!
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Terri L Hudson
January 22, 2021
I grew up knowing Phil because of his work with the Atlanta Spina Bifida Association. He was a lovely man I have many fond memories of. He'll be missed.
Jean Ball
January 20, 2021
Cannot find words to describe Phil. Nice man. Living in Richmond VA and attending all ballgames (were season ticket holders) found him to be a great team manager. Talked about his family alot, was a great husband, father. great mentor. We lost another good man and heaven gained another angel. Till we see you again, Rest in Peace ...
January 10, 2021
God is a God of all Comfort and he will Comfort the family's...My heartfelt condolences..
Cindy Farrand
January 3, 2021
I’m so sorry for your Loss of Uncle Phil I still have Uncle Phil Picture on my Phone this is Cindy Farrand You and The family were Caring and Loving to me I’m Praying our Lord Jesus Keeps you all in His Loving Arms Gods Blessing on you all Remember I was Jeremy Wife I have some U2 Video some funny then I read from the Bible Love Cindy Farrand
Steve Cowan
January 3, 2021
Nancy, Phillip, John and Michael, thanks for sharing Knucksie with so many , for so long. He never said no to a cause he thought mattered and treated the owner and the clubhouse kids exactly the same. God bless you and give you comfort in your grief and know that others are grieving with you.
BRY
January 2, 2021
Sincere condolences to the Niekro Family, May the God of Tender Mercies take care of you during this time of sorrow. May He mend and bind up your grieving hearts with his loving kindness. Thank you for Phil’s contribution to the Baseball League, he will be missed.
January 2, 2021
To the Nieto family, condolences for your loss. May the love of family and dear friends support you at this very difficult time of sorrow. God comforts all who mourn.
LeeRoy
January 2, 2021
My condolences goes out to the family of Phil. What a baseball pitcher. He will be missed.
Jeff and Kathy Sipos
January 1, 2021
To All The Niekro Family, Friends and Fans -
Please accept Kathy's and my most sincere condolences on Knucksie's passing. We pray your Faith will sustain you in this difficult time.
In Phil's all-too-brief time with the Indians, he became a fast Friend of all the little guys in the organization. Whenever a Sunday day game followed a Saturday night one, Knucksie almost always hung around with the clubhouse staff, playing cards and having a pop or two to while away the late-night hours. His common touch was appreciated and loved by all of us.
One of the true greats...as a player for sure but even more so as a human being. The highest complement that can be paid to someone in the game is to call him "a good man." Phil most certainly was.
Thanks Knucksie...rest well...see you on the other side.
Again, our deepest sympathy.
Jeff (and Kathy) Sipos
Assistant Equipment Manager 1984-1993
Strongsville, Ohio
John 16:33
Proverbs 17:6
I Thessalonians 4:13-15,18
Carol Ferry
January 1, 2021
Most of the time when sports news is on I tune it out. Yesterday when they announced Hall of Fame pitcher Phil Niekro passed away, I quickly took notice. Phil was a bright spot in the first year of Daniel's 2 1/2 leukemia treatment. Daniel was asked to do a photo shoot for an article promoting a fundraiser for childhood cancer research, with Phil and Dan Roundfield, a retired professional basketball player. It was July 9th in Atlanta! Sweltering heat to say the least and I was 12 months pregnant with Jonathan. When the photographer wanted to love to another location for more shots in the heat, Phil took Daniel's hand and said, "Come on Daniel. We have more work to do." Daniel proceeded to say, "My daddy works hard." Phil: "Oh ya. What does your daddy do?" Daniel: "He makes money." Phil:"Does he make a lot of money?" Daniel: "No, just 5 dollars, but I put MY money in the bank."
Phil was so kind and genuinely listened to Daniel's tips on how to hit a golf ball.
Flash forward 8 years and we are living in Iowa. Phil was in Iowa at Bob Feller museum. Dan took the boys along with the picture of Daniel and Phil. Phil said, "Where did you get this picture? I have the same one hanging in my office at home." That when Dan said that's my son. RIP Phil.
Stanley Sadakierski
December 31, 2020
Phil, you always were and always will be my favorite. You are a true gentleman and I am praying God takes you quickly to Heaven! (Maybe I can I try to hit your knuckle ball up there if I make it!)
Larry Daniel
December 31, 2020
Having Phil as my golf partner was one of the best day’s I’ve ever had on the golf course. We never stopped laughing and threw curve balls and knuckle balls at each other for 4 hours straight. God’s Speed Knucksie!
Craig Skok
December 31, 2020
Phil was a very gracious and humble individual who always stopped to give a fan a smile and an autograph. He was a great teamate and friend.
December 31, 2020
My condolences.
A.W. Silvers
December 31, 2020
Sincere condolences to the family during this very difficult time. Years ago
we were always proud to see Phil and his dog as clients of BBAH in Gainesville and
it was a privilege and honor.
Sincerely,
A.W. Silvers
Ronnie Wilson
December 30, 2020
Phil, It was indeed an honor to meet you and work with you for about five years on behalf of Spina Bifida. You single-handedly changed the world for those born with the birth defect. You are in the Spina Bifida Hall of Fame for that work. Thank you.
Thank you for your willingness to allow us to "Roast" you in 1979. That single event led to Spina Bifida's largest and most consistent funding source. That also caused of great deal of unforgetable humor.
It was also a pleasure to work with you as not just a baseball legend, but a truely caring human and father. You were always one who could and would use your talents to not only throw a knuckleball, but to make the pitches that would improve the lives of others.
Nancy and the boys, our thoughts and prayers are with you during your loss. May God keep you safe and give you comfort.
Ronnie D. and Nancy M. Wilson
Palm Coast, FL
Mary
December 30, 2020
My deepest condolences to the family of Hall of Famer, Phil Niekro. May God comfort you and strengthen you as you hold tight to his memories.
CRAIG DOSTER CHANDLER
December 30, 2020
Phil was the face of The Braves on and off the field both during his career and retirement. He was generous to local charities and I'll appreciate the times he helped with Toys For Tots and the autographs he signed for my sons. RIP.
December 30, 2020
Craig Skok - great friend and great ballplayer great teammate he will be missed greatly. My condolences to Nancy and family.
December 30, 2020
Our deepest condolences to the family. We pray that God continues to strengthen and comfort the family during this difficult time.
December 30, 2020
My condolences, receive peace and comfort from God.
Michael Patenaude
December 30, 2020
one of the best pitchers that ever played the game of baseball,one of the best in a era gone by ,
Stephen Jacks
December 29, 2020
Thanx for the memories Phil Rest in peace
Steve Jacks
December 29, 2020
Im sorry to hear Loved to see him pitch He really loved the game Thanx for the memories Phil.. Rest in peace
Maurice Albornoz
December 29, 2020
Thank you for the great memories growing up watching you pitch for my favorite team
Rest in Peace Knucksie
Louise Eckenrod
December 29, 2020
Condolences to the family. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
David E. Mong
December 29, 2020
May Phil's soul continue to be blessed throughout eternity. In my softball uniform, I recognized him and met him as he allowed for a long talk in hotel lobby during his Silver Bullets managerial; Jamestown NY motels had no vacancy so his team lodged in Warren, PA. Humble, kindness, knowledgeable and of a beautiful soul noticed in this man; that conversation will last far in memory. Phil, thanks for blessing this world with your approach, character, love of life and of others, and in influencing us all for the better. Looking forward to another conversation in heaven one day. May all of his friends, family and loved ones find comfort in these times and a peace that surpasses all understanding; may God be with you always.
faith tobin
December 29, 2020
Dear Niekro Family Rory and I express our condolences's on the loss of Phil Niekro./and may he rest in peace.best faith/rory
Ava Simone
December 29, 2020
I remember when my aunt lived right next to him, I always thought it was very cool to have a baseball player right next to us, he was very kind to our family. He had a really kind and caring heart. I am very grateful to have known him and that he lived right next to my aunt. My condolences to Nancy and his family.
Karen John Duane
December 29, 2020
We want you to know Nancy that you are in our thoughts and prayers. We feel blessed to have been a part of your and Phil's life starting when we became neighbors on Lake Lanier. So many fun and wonderful memories that we will cherish forever. We are grateful for your and your dear Phil's friendship which we will always cherish.
Your friends, Karen and John Duane
David Molloy
December 29, 2020
To The Niekro Family,
Please accept my condolences on the passing of Phil. I had the pleasure of meeting him on the golf course in Cooperstown New York in 1997. Phil was gentleman, who enjoyed his life.
My Best to all of you,
David M Molloy
Troy, New York
Robert Crotty
December 29, 2020
Our hearts are broken. Phil was a Hall of Famer as a person. So honored to have known him. May God rest, bless and protect his beautiful soul. Sending our condolences and prayers to Nancy and the Niekro family.
Daniel F Duquette
December 29, 2020
Nancy and family condolences on Phil. I will remember Phil as a great teacher and mentor to so many young men and a hero for fulfilling his quest as one of the best pitchers ever in MLB. One of the great player development stories of all time is Phil's role as mentor to Tim Wakefield who went proudly into Red Sox Hall of Game as he got more outs than any pitcher in Sox history. May Phil rest in peace.
With Love and Prayers
Dan + Amy Duquette
December 29, 2020
One of the first games that I ever attended was at Dodger Stadium in '69. If I recall correctly, it was "hat night."
Knucksie confounded a then red-hot Dodger team that memorable night, and I became a Phil Niekro fan. Hall of Fame pitcher, and person. Big champion of women's baseball, too. Reviewing Phil's list of accomplishments in the game, and the widespread respect and love that he garnered, never ceases to amaze!
That knuckleball fluttered. But Phil Niekro the man was a straight-shooter; as much a gem as those masterpieces that he created on the mound.
Harry Simpson
December 29, 2020
Goodnight, and Godspeed Phil, and thank you for sharing a part of your life with us, and the wonderful and unforgettable baseball memories.
Fred Wheeler
December 29, 2020
Thanks for the great memories, and being a childhood hero to a kid from Pittsburgh, not too far from where you grew up. I never missed a game when Phil pitched in Pittsburgh. I witnessed his 200th win, and almost drove up to Toronto to see his 300th. Hugs, love and prayers to the Niekro family.
Sincerely,
Fred Wheeler
P F
December 29, 2020
To the family and friends of Phil Niekro: please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of this unforgettable athlete. As a young female raised by grandparents, my grandpa loved baseball, that love proved to be contagious. I’m forever a fan.
May the peace of God be with you and comfort all of you during this time of sadness!
E.H.
December 29, 2020
He was a master of the knuckleball pitch and a great humanitarian and role model. Growing up, I loved watching the Braves because of him. May God comfort and console his friends and family during this difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with them.
Chuck G San Francisco, CA
December 29, 2020
My sincere condolences to the Niekro family. I had the opportunity several times to see Phil pitch against my home team the SF Giants, we didn't stand a chance against Phil as his knuckle ball fooled many of the players more than once.
Prayers to a good man, a competitor, a gentleman.
Jerry Miller
December 29, 2020
Another one of baseball greats. Back when baseball was a joy to watch and the guys playing the game were just using their god given talents to succeed. I always loved to watch this guy pitch since every pitch was an adventure. There will never be another pitcher that will master the knuckleball like he did that's for sure.
December 29, 2020
A true legend of baseball. Sincere condolences to the Niekro family for your loss, may God be with all of you in your time of sorrow.
Thomas Mann
December 29, 2020
Phil was a longtime friend of my dad Marshall Mann, Braves public address announcer for almost 31 years, Phil came to our house when my dad was fighting cancer himself and visited for a while, Phil was a genereous, caring man, he will surely be missed!
Steve Miller
December 29, 2020
Our thoughts & prayers to the Niekro family.
Phil was truly one of the good guys in this world !
Norman
December 29, 2020
Thanks for being there as a good example for my boys when they were young. My boys were and still are BRAVES FANS.
Norm, Chad, Don Ballow
Steele
December 29, 2020
Im so sorry to the family for your loss. May your heavy hearts be calmed by beloved family members and all of the many faithful fans that appreciated Mr Niekro's talent. I offer my sincere condolences.
Melody Andrews
December 29, 2020
I met Mr Niekro through the SPINA BIFIDA ASSOCIATION. He did a lot for our group! THANK YOU MR NIEKRO!MELODY ANDREWS (JACKSONVILLE FL)
Douglas Mock
December 28, 2020
Phil was my idol as I grew up in the 70's loving Atlanta Braves baseball. Couldn't wait to watch him pitch. Didn't know him personally, of course, but it was always obvious what a great human being he was - and even though he was a hall-of-famer, such an underrated pitcher. So saddened to hear of his passing.
Herman Karhoff
December 28, 2020
Thank you dedication to your family and MLB. Your work ethic, professional example in all that you did is one to be admired and followed by all. If there's baseball in heaven, they now have a new all-star.
Joe Roshau II
December 28, 2020
Prayers, and Condolences. GO, Braves!!
Vonda Flinchum
December 28, 2020
My condolences to Phil’s family.He will be greatly missed
December 28, 2020
My condolences to your family. May the God of Comfort, continue to comfort the family, during these difficult times.
Ronald Kizer
December 28, 2020
I saw Phil pitch many nights in Atlanta. Was a big Braves fan back in the 60'and 70's. He was one of the greatest in Atlanta, playing side by side with Hank. RIP
Debbie Clark
December 28, 2020
I knew Phil for many years, and was blessed to count him in my circle of friends. He was such a giving person. Flowery Branch is my hometown, and Phil, Nancy, and the boys were just part if our Flowery Branch family. I teach in the local school system and, just last February was nominated for The National Teacher Hall of Fame. Phil came to my school and recorded a video endorsement for me in support of my nomination. When he left, he hugged me and said, "We love you." I will cherish that moment forever. Nancy, you and your wonderful family are in my thoughts and prayers. I Love You All.
Sue Brooks
December 28, 2020
You will never meet a more kind, genuine soul than Phil Neikro. He was known around the world, but Flowery Branch considers him our hometown boy, and he will be missed every day.
Bruce Hux
December 28, 2020
Followed the Braves in 66 till today. Watched him pitch many, many games....Met him 2 years ago at Bassmaster Classic in Greenville, SC. I told him my dad and I saw him many times at old Atlanta Stadium. Have a signed ball from that day, a great man. God Bless you Phil, Nancy and family.
Patrick Greaber
December 28, 2020
So proud to have known Phil Niekro and witness what a truly humble and generous man he was throughout the years. Phil and Carl Dahlstrom and my father spent quite a bit of time fishing during the Braves spring training games when it was in West Palm Beach FL and my father was always excited to be a part of it. Phil and Nancy were always so generous with their time and when it was to
time and a need for a Master of Ceremonies for the Johnny Mize Museum in Demorest GA, Phil was gracious enough to participate and honor Johnny as I am sure he did for many other players and coaches. As for his generosity, Phil was always willing to sign an autograph when I am sure he grew tired of it but he would personalize it and always smile! RIP Phillip- you have finished the game of life! Cheers to you and the wonderful memories you left behind!!
Dave Klein
December 28, 2020
As a friend of Jerry Royster, I was privileged to attend many Braves games and sit with the families. My sympathies to the family. Also had the privilege of being matched with Phil in a golf tourney at HHI. What a great person and fun to be around.
Doug Chase
December 28, 2020
I was sad to hear about the loss of Phil Niekro. I grew up watching him pitch. He was not only a great baseball player but so much more a humanitarian. Rest in peace Phil
Dave Augustine
December 28, 2020
One of the Kindest and Down to earth men I knew .Treated everyone with respect.. Sad heis gone.
Donald Skuza
December 28, 2020
Phil was the best pitcher in MLB The Show 18 (video game), where we were first introduced. My friend Nick and I would use his 1978 All-Star diamond card, much to the frustration of players online. Thank you Niekro, one of our all time favorite players.
Charlie Hodge
December 27, 2020
I new Phil and Nancy from Prince of Peace church that we all attended.
Phil was a down to earth person, he always would acknowledge myself and others before and after mass. Such a nice man as well as his family.
Charlie Hodge
December 27, 2020
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
Mike Renta
December 27, 2020
Phil was just a wonderful person. My Grandfather, Luman Harris, had the privilege of managing Phil from 1969-1972. He was one of my Grandfather’s favorites.
Even after my Grandfather became bed ridden from complications of diabetes, if Phil, for some reason, was anywhere near, he dropped by and visited. Our family will always be grateful to Phil and his family for their kindness.
What a wonderful Husband and Father to have had! All us from the Harris clan have the Niekro’s in our orayers, and Phil, always in our heart
Jim Boyles
December 27, 2020
I grew up as a 10 year old Braves fan in Augusta, when they hit Atlanta in 1966 and always followed them. I and a friend at the Ga-Fla football game week, we’re lucky enough to get paired with Phil and his b-in-law from Gainesville, Ga for a round of golf at Amelia Island. WHAT A TREAT! Phil was so warm and Dow-to-earth. You would have thought we were regulars in a golf group. A true gentleman and sportsman and one of my FAVORITE lifetime memories. His family should be so proud of the man he was.
Dave C
December 27, 2020
Phil Niekro represented the Braves and all of baseball exceedingly well. For me, he was a critical part of my childhood. On days Niekro would pitch, my dad and I would sit in the front row of the centerfield section of the old stadium, just to the left of second base. We would watch him pitch through our binoculars, laughing as batter after batter was befuddled by THE pitch. Also, when I was 15, I was manning a charity point during some event. Niekro stopped by and talked to me for five minutes or so. Just me. What an amazing pitcher, amazing man. RIP Mr Niekro.
Patrick Mahon
December 27, 2020
And of course condolences to your wife.
Patrick Mahon
December 27, 2020
Phil, thank you for a great career. I have been a Braves fan since 1953. I also remember your support for the baseball program at Shiloh High School. Your support and the support of other parents got the program off to a great start as the team won the state championship in its third year of operation.
My condolences to Phil, John, and Michael.
Dr. Patrick Mahon
Principal, Shiloh High School
Monty Willis
December 27, 2020
I am a longtime Braves fan ,60 plus years,talked to Phil several times .He was a super nice man ,always willing to sign an autograph. I will treasure mine and miss seeing him around the ballpark.My condolences to his family.
Steve Jones
December 27, 2020
As a kid learning The Game by watching, there was no better teacher than Phil Niekro. He was the master deceiver and that is the heart of baseball. Fooling the other players.
Beyond his mastery on the field, Knucksie was a congenial ambassador for the Atlanta Braves and all of baseball.
Men like Phil Niekro make me proud to tell everyone that I and all of my family are Atlanta Braves fans.
My condolences to the Niekro family.
Phil you will be missed.
Rest In Peace.
Steve Jones
Joe Skillin
December 27, 2020
Always a first-class gentleman.
Brian Peabody
December 27, 2020
Phil and Nancy made me feel like more than just an occasional guest in their home, and I shall always remember and treasure their kind hospitality, and Phil's willingness to rescue a broken-down cyclist from amongst our merry band. I wish the comfort of fond memories and a peaceful passing to Phil's family, and his many, many, friends.
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