Debra Knutson, age 71, of New Concord, Kentucky, passed away Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at the Henry County Health & Rehabilitation Center in Paris, Tennessee.
She was born December 11, 1954, in St. Paul, Minnesota, to the late Franklin Smock and Gertrude Grabau.
Debra spent more than 30 years living in Murray, Kentucky, and worked throughout her life as a real estate agent. She was a faithful member of Good Shepherd United Methodist Church. Debra was a talented seamstress and enjoyed sewing, crafting, and decorating her home. She volunteered as a costume maker for Playhouse in the Park, was an active TOPS member, and enjoyed designing and sewing purses to sell. Earlier in life, while living in Minnesota, she operated an in-home daycare for many years.
She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers, Steve Smock and Jeff Smock; and three sisters, Mary Smock, Lisa Feifarek, and Jill Smock.
Survivors include her husband, Lawrence Knutson of New Concord, Kentucky; two daughters, Charity and Elizabeth; one brother, Mark Smock; three sisters, Theresa Roussin, Ina Sue Morrison, and Helen Phelps; and four grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life service was held Sunday, February 1, 2026, at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church following morning worship services, with Pastor Steve Howe officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Good Shepherd United Methodist Church or to the donor’s favorite charity.
