Kevin Ralph Knapp

Kevin Knapp set sail on his final voyage peacefully on Monday May 6th, 2024 in Newport, North Carolina. Born on August 3rd, 1955 in Norwalk, Connecticut, Kevin’s life was filled with artistry, music, and maritime tradition. Kevin’s creativity, intelligence and humor will be missed by those that knew him.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents Ralph and Eleanore, and his sister Judy. He leaves behind his sister, Wendy, and brother-in-law Doug; his cherished niece and nephew, Megan, and Tyler for whom he named his beloved boats “Megan Ann” and “Tyler Too.” Additionally, he leaves behind his sister’s children Charlene, Bonnie, and Chuck as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Our family extends heartfelt gratitude to Bo, Tracey and Asher Brinson who became Kevin’s chosen family in North Carolina, providing an abundance of friendship, love and support that will always be remembered. He shared his musical talent with Asher, mentoring him on the guitar. We know he will be by his side cheering with every song he plays.

A shipwright by trade and a musician by nature, Kevin’s hands were imbued with creativity, whether restoring antique wooden boats to their former glory or building new ones, giving a piece of his soul lovingly to each one. His craftmanship was not just his profession it was his passion, his art, and his way of connecting to the world. The Beaufort Oars Club has two boats that Kevin built and there is a lighthouse/oyster bar he built in his hometown that has been a local icon for many years. He also excelled in carpentry, leaving a touch of his artistry in many homes in the Beaufort area.

Kevin was a self-taught musician whose talent was evident in every note he played on his guitar and violin. He could charm melodies from any instrument he touched. His love for music was infectious and his impromptu performances were moments of pure joy for anyone lucky enough to witness them.

Kevin was a lover of nature, and he had a unique and gentle ability to connect with animals. The sea was Kevin’s true home, it was part of his soul. It was where he found peace and inspiration in the rhythm of the waves. Often, he could be found sitting on the deck of his boat playing his guitar and watching the sunrise. Sometimes he would be graced by dolphins attracted to his music.

As he sets off on his final earthly journey, let us remember him in the waves of the sea and think of his music and all the beauty he left on this earth but most of all the love he shared with us, and the love we had for him.

Condolences and life tributes may be sent to the family at www.noebrooks.net

Arrangements by Noe-Brooks Funeral Home, Morehead City, NC.