Bruce Frederick Knighten
April 13, 1943 ~ March 29, 2026
Born in:
Transylvania Co., NC
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Bruce Frederick Knighten, 82, passed peacefully at home and surrounded by his family, on Sunday, March 29, 2026. Born to the late Marvin and Lola Knighten. Bruce is also preceded in death by his six siblings, Marvin “Bernard” Knighten; Gary Knighten; Laura Reynolds; Cybil Capps; Carol Knighten; Gerald Knighten, and granddaughter Gracie Fowler.
Bruce was a giving and caring man, helping others whenever possible. It didn’t matter if you were a friend or stranger, Bruce would show-up for you. He was dedicated to his work in landscaping and took great joy in his John Deere tractor and triple-decker PB & J’s. Bruce would never think to leave the house without his suspenders, ballcap, shorts, socks and Redman Tobacco. He loved his westerns, and wore his John Wayne coat proudly. He was strong, determined, and sometimes strict but also had a heart full of kindness and compassion. Along with his human family and friends, Bruce loved his animal companions, Blue, B.J., Bella, Levi, and Tank.
Bruce is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Mary Alice Knighten; daughters Annie Wallen (Donald), Shelia Fowler, and Karen Hawk (Donnie); grandchildren, Daniel Wallen, Cody Wallen, Kristie Wallen (Travis Corcoran), Kayla Dillman (Ryan), and Tanya Goins (Cody); and great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Corcoran, Eleanor Corcoran, Charity Wallen, Shawn Wallen, Brianna Dillman.
A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, April 4, 2026 at Groce Funeral Home on Patton Avenue.
Services
Memorial Service: April 4, 2026 2:00 pm
Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806
(828)252-3535
http://grocefuneralhome.com
Funeral Home Assisting The Family:
Groce Funeral Home - Patton Ave.
1401 Patton Ave.
Asheville, NC 28806
(828)252-3535
http://grocefuneralhome.com
Asheville Butterfly Trail





Don, Leanne and I send our deepest condolences to you and your family . 🙏
So sorry, you all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Oh Bruce. You were such a nice man and wonderful friend. I’ll never forget your kindness and amazing spirit. Rest in Peace my friend. -Bill Russell