Knox O'Neal Conklin

Knox O’Neal Conklin, 29, passed away unexpectedly on the morning of Monday, September 1, 2025, at his childhood home in Orlando, Florida. Born on September 28, 1995, to Michelle and Myron Conklin. Knox grew up alongside his sisters, Madison Conklin Hiller and Sophia Claire Conklin, and a home always full of beloved pets. From a young age, he showed a quick mind and gifted hands, but it was his generous heart and gentle spirit that truly defined him.

He was a caring soul who loved animals of all kinds. Though he was too allergic to become a veterinarian, as everyone suggested he should, Knox always found ways to care for the creatures around him. He fed squirrels in the backyard, looked after chipmunks during his times in North Carolina, and even devoted time to the ant tunnels in his mom’s classroom. Most of all, he cherished his pets, especially his cat Lucky and his loyal Chihuahua, Elliot.

Knox created more than just memories for those he loved; his hands built, fixed, and crafted alongside friends and family throughout his life. He worked on everything from plumbing, jewelry making, and farming to concrete projects, always lending his creativity and skill wherever it was needed. His craftsmanship even found its way into Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney World, where he helped build the park’s bathrooms. If you ever find yourself there, think of Knox and know that a piece of his imagination and care lives within.

As a child, Knox played soccer, baseball, and BMX biking, excelling most on his bike. Later, he became a passionate gamer, spending countless hours adventuring in World of Warcraft. Known and loved by his online family across the globe, Knox’s skill, humor, and loyalty made him unforgettable to friends near and far. His perfect raid attendance and exceptional performance earned him a best average "parse" of 99.2%, a point of pride among those who played alongside him. To them, he was “Jentro,” but his friends knew the same Knox his family cherished: witty, caring, and steadfast.

Although quiet by nature, Knox had a laugh and a presence that filled a room. His wit and charm were more powerful than the loudest voices. He was endlessly patient and had the rare ability to make others feel truly seen. Most of all, Knox adored his family. As the middle child, he was a gentle connector, teaching his family to slow down, be present, and love one another. He was the sweetest uncle to his nephew, Bruce Wayne Hiller, and niece, Betty Louise Hiller, who will forever remember his warmth, silliness, and love. To know Knox was, truly, to love and be loved by him.

Knox’s life was not without struggle. He battled opioid addiction, a journey that led him through rehab programs, homelessness, hospital stays, and overdoses. However, with the help of Dr. Kent Hoffman, an extraordinary addiction specialist, and life-changing medication, the last three years of his life were marked by healing, sobriety, and peace at home with his parents. He overcame so much, and in the end, it was his heart that failed him.

Knox is survived by his parents, Michelle and Myron Conklin; his sisters, Madison Conklin Hiller and her husband David Hiller, and Sophia Claire Conklin; his niece and nephew, Bruce and Betty; grandparents Sherri and Bill Knox; and many extended family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Sue and Hartwell Conklin, and his aunt, Angelyn Conklin, who surely welcomed him with love.

A service to celebrate Knox’s life will be held on Friday, September 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church in Orlando, Florida. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live streamed at https://www.youtube.com/c/SaintMichaelsOrlando. 

Though twenty-nine years will never feel like enough, Knox’s memory will live on through his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched.