Coach “Buddy” Roy Knapp Jr. age 81 of Centre, passed away Saturday, January 03, 2026 at his home.
Buddy Knapp leaves behind a legacy of leadership, dedication, and service that spanned more than five decades in education and athletics.
Beginning his coaching career in Notasulga High School in 1969, Buddy Knapp devoted his life to mentoring young athletes through both football and basketball, believing that sports provided a foundation for discipline, integrity, and lifelong values. His coaching journey continued at Carrollton High School from 1976 to 1987, Mount Zion High School from 1987 to 1996, Coosa High School from 1996 to 2001, and concluded with a return to Mount Zion High School from 2001 to 2003.
To his players, Buddy was more than a coach—he was a mentor, teacher, and steady influence during some of the most formative years of their lives. Whether on the football field or the basketball court, he emphasized effort, accountability, and respect. One of his most enduring lessons was his belief that athletes should always carry themselves with “class, character, and clout,” a phrase that became a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy and a standard his teams were proud to uphold.
Among his fellow coaches and coworkers, Buddy was known for his integrity, loyalty, and tireless work ethic. He led by example and earned the respect of colleagues through fairness, consistency, and an unwavering commitment to his athletes. He never asked more of others than he was willing to give himself.
He often reminded his teams to “do things the right way, even when no one is watching,” a principle that guided both his coaching and his life. His influence reached far beyond seasons and scoreboards, shaping young men and women long after their playing days had ended.
Buddy Knapp leaves behind a lasting legacy in the countless athletes he coached, the colleagues he supported, and the communities he faithfully served. Built over five decades of dedication, his impact will continue to live on through the lives he touched and the values he instilled—forever defined by class, character, and clout.
A Celebration of Life service will be held Thursday, January 08, 2026 at 12:00PM in the chapel of Perry Funeral Home, the family will receive friends from 11:00AM till the hour of service at the funeral home.
He is survived by his wife; Rita Ann Cothran Knapp, sons: Brian Scott (Tashia) Knapp, Brady Keith Knapp, stepson; Jonathan Allen Roberts, step-daughter; Aimee Nicole Macmahon, grandchildren; Gracie Allen (Cash), Bristol Knapp, Emerson Knapp, Theodore Knapp, special friends; The Mighty Ballers, John Hill, Larry Bing, Knowlin Wood, George Scroggins, Ricky Tollison. The family request no flowers and donations be made to Centre First Baptist Church Building Fund or The Gaylesville High School Booster Club.
Perry Funeral Home is in charge of Arrangements.
