James Christopher Knudsen

 Knudsen, James Christopher (1949 - 2023)

James “Jamie” Christopher Knudsen died May 9, 2023, at his home in Aiken SC, surrounded by his family following a period of declining health.

Jamie was born in Philipsburg, PA, the son of The Rev. Canon H. Peter Knudsen and Mildred (Benson) Knudsen, the third of three boys in the family. He attended public schools in Philipsburg and attended the College of William & Mary. He enlisted in the Air Force, serving at Edwards Air Force Base in Edwards, CA.

Following discharge from the Air Force, Jamie enrolled at Penn State University, graduating with a degree in Religious Studies. He married Raina Marie McKrell in 1978, and they began their married life in Philipsburg, where Jamie and a business partner ran a bar/restaurant. Their daughter Margaret “Molly” Knudsen was born in State College. Jamie enjoyed singing in a barbershop group and participating in amateur theatre.

Later in his career, Jamie served as a Purchasing and Contract manager for the Department of Energy. He was a tinkerer, and enjoyed doing home repairs and restoration. Homes in Virginia, West Virginia and South Carolina all benefited from his handyman abilities. He was also a superb amateur photographer, specializing in natural scenes and wildlife native to South Carolina.

Jamie was an active member of St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church, singing in the choir and serving on various leadership bodies. Jamie is survived by Raina, his wife of 45 years, his daughter Margaret “Molly” and her wife Gillian Drury, Richmond, VA; his sister-in-law The Rt. Rev. Chilton R. Knudsen, Cantonsville, MD; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be at St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church, at 10 am on Tuesday May 16, 2023. Military honors will be conducted by the United States Air Force. The service will be live streamed on the church website www.staaiken.org. A reception with the family will be held following the service in the church fellowship hall.

Memorials may be made to St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church, 1630 Silver Bluff Rd. Aiken, SC 29803, or to the Albrecht Center of the SPCA 199 Willow Run Rd, Aiken, SC 29801.

The family of Jamie Knudsen thanks Gentiva Hospice for their care for Jamie and family in his last days. Arrangements are in the care of COLE FUNERAL HOME 1544 UNIVERSITY PARKWAY (118 BYPASS) AIKEN, SC 29801. Please sign the online registry at www.colefuneralhomeinc.net.