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Obituary For Lois Evelyn Knox Finley
Lois Evelyn Knox Finley, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully entered eternal rest on Friday May 23, 2025, surrounded by loved ones at the age of 87. Born on August 21, 1937, in Learned, Mississippi, she was the beloved daughter of the late Willie Knox Sr. and Ada Lee Burks Knox.
Lois accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Springridge Baptist Church in Utica, Mississippi. She lived a life grounded in faith, love, and unwavering generosity.
She graduated from Hinds County Agricultural High School, where she was known not only for her academic achievements but also for her talents on the basketball court. On October 21, 1955, she married the love of her life, Henry Grady Finley. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage until his passing in 2015. Their union was blessed with five children: Henry Jr., Terri, Alton, Anthony, and Ronnel.
Shortly after marrying, Lois and Henry relocated to New Orleans, Louisiana, where she dedicated herself wholeheartedly to raising their family as a loving and nurturing homemaker. Lois was a remarkable cook who began honing her culinary skills at the age of seven. Her kitchen was the heart of her home, and she was known far and wide for her delicious gumbo, red beans and rice, and countless other dishes that brought comfort and joy to all who tasted them.
For over 40 years, Lois hosted Thanksgiving in her home—a tradition that became a cherished gathering for family and friends. Her door was always open, and her heart even more so. It was not uncommon for neighbors and guests to stop by unannounced, only to be welcomed with warmth, a full plate, and a seat at her table.
Even during her later years, as illness confined her to a wheelchair, Lois never lost her zest for life or her love of feeding others. She continued to cook and serve her family with grace and resilience. When asked how she was doing, she would often smile and say, “I am doing great for an old hen,” a saying that captured her humor, strength, and ever-positive spirit.
Lois was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Grady Finley; her parents, Willie and Ada Knox; one grandson, Henry Finley III; one sister, Minnie Bell Walker; and four brothers, Nick Knox Sr., Calvin Knox Sr., Joe Edward Knox, and Willie Knox Jr.
She leaves to cherish her memory five devoted children: Henry Jr. (Debra), Terri Jordan, Alton (Debbie), Anthony (Ann), and Ronnel (Belinda), all of New Orleans, LA. She is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Trinese Duplessis, Keyanna Jordan, Morris Jordan III, Michael Jordan, Dana Gary, Tameka Gary, Anthony Finley Jr., Austin Finley, Ronnel Finley Jr., Ariel Finley, Ronnishia Finley, and Rondel Finley; five step-grandchildren: Derrick Hicks, Janda Ramsey, Ahn-Richekia Roberson, Coyle Roberson, and Lionel Roberson; 22 great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren; one brother, Alfred Knox of Milwaukee, WI; four sisters: Rosie Randle of Indianola, MS, Phalia Key of Inglewood, CA, Patricia Cannon of Jackson, MS, and Karen Kinnard (Kirk) of Clinton, MS; along with a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Lois Evelyn Knox Finley was loved by many—not only for her legendary cooking and openhearted hospitality but for her indomitable spirit, unwavering faith, and the boundless love she gave so freely to all. Her legacy will live on in the hearts and kitchens of those who were blessed to know her.
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