Write a commentEvelyn A. Knoop, resident of Scriba, aged 86, passed away peacefully at her home on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
She was in her cherished sunroom, surrounded by her loving family and devoted companions. Born in Oswego on January 15, 1940, she was the daughter of the late John and June (Hewitt) Jessmore.
Following her graduation from Oswego High School, Evelyn built a diverse professional career. She initially worked for General Electric as a secretary in Syracuse, before spending several years as a secretary in the Earth Science department at SUNY Oswego. From there she worked for Johnson Control in the construction of the former Miller Brewery in Fulton. She then transitioned into the insurance industry, working for many years with Haylor, Fryer and Coon, and eventually retiring from the Fitzgibbons Insurance Agency in Oswego. Demonstrating her lifelong work ethic, she later returned to clerical work for a few years as a secretary for Laborers Local 214.
Evelyn engaged in numerous hobbies throughout her life. In her younger years, she was an avid bowler who participated in several leagues. Later in life, she spent many memorable seasons at her camp at Brennan Beach, where she delighted in making new friends, playing cards and games, riding on her golf cart, and dancing to live bands. Her other interests included reading mystery novels, watching crime programs, Jeopardy, and Wheel of Fortune, playing online games, and solving crossword puzzles. She was also a passionate fan of SU Basketball. Above all, Evelyn found her greatest happiness in being a grandmother and "GiGi," frequently singing "You are My Sunshine" to her grandchildren, and great-grandchildren followed by her trademark wink.
She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Michele “Shelly” Knoop-Kocher; two granddaughters, Liz Henderson (James Brown) and Abigail (Eamon) Lacey; and three great-grandchildren, Silas Henderson, alongside Kashden and Kinsley Lacey. Evelyn is also survived by her beloved nieces and nephews: Charlie (Brenda) Bracy, Terri (Bill) Somers, Dan Bracy, Mary Jane (Tim) Collins, Joan (Tim) Lawton, Patty Hannon, Tom (Patti) Hannon, Maureen Hannon, and Kevin (Regina) Hannon, as well as many great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.
Evelyn was preceded in death by her parents, an infant brother, Richard Jessmore, her three sisters, Eileen Hannon, Helen Bracy, and Lorraine (Raine) Pagano, and her niece, Karen Hannon.
In accordance with Evelyn’s personal wishes, no formal services will be held. Her final arrangements are being handled under the compassionate care of Nelson Funeral Home.
