Roger Lynn Knowles

Roger Lynn Knowles, 81, of Direct, Texas, passed away peacefully at Heritage House Nursing Facility in Paris, Texas, on March 10, 2026.

Born on June 1, 1944, in Roanoke, Texas, to Dan and Evelyn Knowles, Roger graduated from L.D. Bell High School in Hurst. He began his working life with Austin Road Company in Fort Worth, where he met the love of his life, Triena Lee Davis. They married on September 8, 1963, in Hurst and shared a devoted marriage of more than six decades. Together they raised two sons while embracing a life centered on family, faith, and the land.

Roger’s deep love of the outdoors and ranching led him to manage a 10,000-acre ranch in Fannin County, where he raised his family. In 1984, with Triena’s steadfast support, he realized his dream of owning his own ranch. After the cattle market collapse in 1988, he began building fences and gates to provide for his family. Through determination and hard work, he founded Northeast Gate Co., which grew into a respected manufacturer and nationwide distributor of livestock equipment. The business became a lasting legacy that continues to support his sons, grandsons, and many employees.

A longtime member of Direct Baptist Church, Roger was baptized there on October 23, 1988. He was known for his quiet faith and for gently turning conversations toward the need for Jesus Christ. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Triena, his sisters Sue, Faye, and Pat, and his brother Alan. He is survived by his sister Carolyn and brothers Ronnie, Jerry, and Kenneth; his sons, Russell Knowles and wife Amy, and Randy Knowles and wife Jennifer; five grandchildren, Amanda, Kristen, Matthew, Josh, and Dylan; and three great-grandchildren, Peyton, Deacon, and Truitt.