Nathelea Garrett, 74, of Petersburg, IN, formerly of Mount Carmel, passed away on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at home surrounded by her loving family. She was born on July 8, 1951 in Mount Carmel, the daughter of Bobby Gene and Lillian “Maxine” (Hufford) Adams. She married Dennis Knox and together they enjoyed sixteen years of marriage before his passing in on July 24, 1992.
Nathelea will be lovingly remembered by her family, whom she cherished above all else. A devoted Christian, she found joy and strength in her faith, and she loved attending Church and praising the Lord. She had a passion for simple pleasures; especially going on outings to yard sales and Goodwill, always on the lookout for hidden treasures. Nathelea also enjoyed the quiet comfort of reading and found joy in the little moments of life. Nathelea had a deep love for animals, especially her beloved dog, Lucky, who held a special place in her heart. In her younger years, she found great joy in horseback riding.
A dedicated and compassionate caregiver, Nathelea spent many years working at a nursing home as a cook. She was happiest when she was at home caring for her family. Her kindness, and generous spirit touched the lives of many. Nathelea will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Nathelea will be remembered by her daughters, Helen Haycraft and husband, Larry, Jeanie (Pat Smith) McWilliams, and Brenda Lofton and husband, Rick; bonus daughter, Karen Knox; grandchildren, Casey (Joey) O’Brien, Matt (Samantha) Haycraft, Roy (Molly) Haycraft, Samuel Haycraft, Becky Haycraft, Amber (David) Dishman, Holly Lofton, Tessa White, Dara Dill, Sara Neufelder, Randy Lofton, David Cullivan, Ryan Eckiss, Gavin Eckiss, and Christina Eckiss; twenty great grandchildren; brothers, Daniel Adams, Randy Adams, Billy (Kathy) Adams, and Mikey Adams; sisters, Cindy (Earl) Weekley, Helen (Dale) Gillihan, Jane (Tony) Delgado, Jean (Eloy) Wood, Joan (Bob) Tarlton, and Hattie (Kenny) Speers; many loved cousins, nieces and nephews.
Nathelea was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dennis Knox; son, Charles Cullivan; grandson, Cody Eckiss; brothers, Timmy Adams, and Bobby Adams; sisters, Sharon Farley, Susan Boyd, and Angela Adams.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a Visitation from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., Friday, July 11, 2025, in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home.
Funeral Services will be 1:00 p.m., Saturday, July 12, 2025 in the Chapel of Keepes Funeral Home with Gene Burkhart officiating. Burial will follow at Highland Memorial Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Nathelea’ s memory to Helen Haycraft to help offset final expenses. Envelopes will be at the funeral home or can be mailed to Keepes Funeral Home, 1500 North Cherry Street, Mount Carmel, IL 62863.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Nathelea’ s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Garrett family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
