Christine Y. Knopp

Christine Marie Yahnig Knopp passed away peacefully at her home at the age of 106 on Monday, August 25, 2025.

Christine's deep faith was evident in every aspect of her life, which shone through her joyful spirit and unwavering trust in God. She was a steadfast prayer warrior with a radiant heart, always living out her faith in action and grace.

Born on May 28, 1919, in Grundy, Kentucky, Christine was the daughter of the late Joseph Richard and Clara (Simpson) Yahnig. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, Paul Black Knopp, as well as by two half-brothers, Harry T. Yahnig and John F. Yahnig; three brothers, Richard M. Yahnig, Dudley P. Yahnig, and C. Albert Yahnig; a sister, Jessie (Yahnig) Dalton; a daughter-in-law, Anne (Coleman) Knopp; and a grandson, Matthew Eoin Robson.

Christine is survived by her nine sons: John C. Knopp, Joseph L. and Nina (Taylor) Knopp, David W. and Marilyn (Miller) Knopp, Thomas H. and Barbara (Wick) Knopp, Timothy L. and Anne (Kurtulus) Knopp, Mark A. and Andrea (Fortson) Knopp, Stephen P. Knopp, Nathan A. and Karen (Davis) Knopp, Daniel G. and Linda (Zauner) Knopp. She also leaves behind a brother, Frank Yahnig of Somerset, KY; a sister, Josephine (Yahnig) Elliott of Texhoma, OK; a sister-in-law, Anna Ruth Rathburn of Raphine, VA; a legacy of 27 grandchildren and 55 great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

Christine's 106 years were defined by her love for God and her service to others. Affectionately known as "Mama" Knopp, her life exemplified heartfelt gratitude, often heard saying, "Thank you, Jesus!" as she went about her daily tasks. She was a practical person, and after her third son was born, she prayed for boys so that clothes could be passed down, and bedrooms, chores and activities shared in like fashion. "Mama" cherished her role as a mother, joyfully raising nine boys as a labor of love. She taught her sons the value of scripture, encouraging them to memorize verses like Psalm 19:14: "Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer," and to recite it when she took them to school.

Her prayers were simple yet powerful, covering everything from practical needs like parking spaces to the more profound concerns of her family's future.

"Mama" Knopp's legacy of hospitality was immeasurable. She warmly extended love, food and fellowship to all who entered her kitchen and sat at her table. Over the years, she welcomed more than 10,000 people into her home, offering them meals and a place to stay when needed. In 1971, she began a guestbook that now spans 14 volumes. Along with her husband, Paul, she was a dedicated supporter of Grace Christian School, an outgrowth of Community Fellowship Church, which was founded in their home.

"Mama" Knopp's greatest desire was for others to know the love, forgiveness, and grace of Jesus Christ. Her life was a living testimony of God's love in action. She would want all of us to honor the memories we cherish of her, by turning to Jesus and sharing Him with others.

It is a wondrous thing to know that "Mama" has assuredly heard, "Well done, good and faithful servant. .. enter into the joy of your master!" (Matthew 25:21)

The family would like to thank the numerous individuals who provided such loving, faithful care and kind support to her in the final years of "Mama's" life. Their caring, thoughtful presence brought her much peace, encouragement, and joy. Thank you.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Memorial Baptist Church in Staunton on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at 2:00 PM. The family will receive friends at a reception at the church immediately following the service. The service will be livestreamed on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@memorialbaptiststaunton) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/MemorialBaptistStaunton).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Community Fellowship Church capital campaign for Grace Christian School (memo line: Capital Campaign | 19 South Market Street, Staunton, VA 24401), or the Blue Ridge Area Food Bank (PO Box 937, Verona, Virginia 24482).

Henry Funeral Home in Staunton is entrusted with arrangements.