Knowlton Steven Shelnut

Knowlton Steven Shelnut, known as Steve to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on February 10, 2026, in his hometown of Lakeland, FL, at the age of 56. He was born on January 17, 1970, to Conni Mangum Shelnut and the late Knowlton Henry (Joe) Shelnut Jr.

Graduating from Lakeland High School in 1988 and the University of Florida in 1992, Steve later received a Master's Degree in Business and took theology coursework at Southeastern University.

Professionally, he worked in product management, often designing software from home. His creative hobbies included writing, art, and playing the guitar.

He is survived by his mother, Conni Mangum Shelnut; his children, Knowlton Henry Shelnut III and Margaret Elise Shelnut, all from Lakeland; his siblings, Jonathan Dwight Shelnut of Lakeland and Kathryn Marie Christianson (Chris) of Tampa; and a number of nieces and nephews.

Steve was preceded in death by his father, Knowlton Henry ("Joe") Shelnut, Jr., along with his grandparents, Eloise & Dwight Mangum and Knowlton Henry Shelnut & Marjorie Shelnut Robinson.

A Tribute for Steve will take place on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Lakeland Funeral Home & Memorial Gardens, 2125 S. Bartow Road, Lakeland, FL 33801.