Alfred C. Knecht, 96, a cherished educator, coach, mentor, devoted husband, loving father, grandfather, great-grandfather and loyal friend to many, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the Williamsport Home.
Born February 3, 1929 in Sunbury, he was the only son of the late Alfred F. and Lorena M. (Mutschler) Knecht.
Al was a graduate of Sunbury High School and then proudly served in the U.S. Air Force. After finishing his term in the Air Force, he earned his bachelor’s degree from Bloomsburg State College and a master’s in school administration and guidance from Bucknell University. Throughout his career in education, Al worked as a business education instructor and guidance director, and ultimately served as a principal at Loyalsock Township High School. He attended Pine Street United Methodist Church.
In addition to his work in school leadership, Al was instrumental in developing numerous federal and local programs aimed at advancing education and supporting children. He played a key role in curriculum development across several school districts. A passionate supporter of interscholastic athletics, Al was actively involved with the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association District Committee and the Susquehanna Basketball and Football Chapters, and served as president of the West Branch Athletic Conference. He also contributed to various statewide educational and athletic associations, reflecting his deep commitment to both academic and extracurricular excellence.
He was a dedicated educator, known for his thoughtful problem solving and strong communication with both students and his children. Above all else, Al cherished being a father and found his greatest joy in spending time with his family.
Surviving is his loving wife of 53 years, Jeanne L. (Nezzo) Knecht; four children, Elizabeth Slabonik of Mertztown, Keith Knecht (Ann) of Williamsport, Wilfred Knecht (Melissa) of Orlando, FL, and Matthew Knecht (Josiane) of Neptune, NJ; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife, Janice Jean (Mowery) Knecht and a son-in-law, Jim Slabonik.
A funeral service to honor Al’s life will be held 11 a.m., Thursday, July 3 at Pine Street United Methodist Church, 441 Pine Street, Williamsport. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service, Thursday, at church. A private interment will be held at the convenience of the family in Pomfret Manor Cemetery, Sunbury.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to James V. Brown Library, 19 East Fourth St., Williamsport, PA 17701 or Pine Street U.M.C., 441 Pine Street, Williamsport, PA 17701.
Online condolences may be made on his memorial page at http://www.SandersMortuary.com
