Louisville, Kentucky - Mercedes Marie (Hanka) Thompson McKnight, 100, of Louisville, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025. A beloved nurse and educator, Mercedes dedicated many years of her life to both nursing and teaching in Bullitt and Jefferson Counties. Notably, she served as the Director of the Practical Nursing School, where her influence and commitment to her students left an indelible mark.

She was born on February 26, 1925 in Floyds Knobs, Indiana, to Lawrence and Anna (Thein) Hanka. In addition to her parents, Mercedes was preceded in death by her daughter, Renee Leathers, son-in-law, David Leathers, siblings, Eugene Hanka and Celeste Strahl, and her first husband, John L. Thompson. She is survived by her husband, Walter McKnight; her daughters, Kathryn Clayton and Lynn Hafley (Gary); as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended McKnight family members who will hold her memory close to their hearts.

Visitation for Mercedes will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. on Monday, June 16, 2025, at St. Mary of the Knobs Catholic Church, located at 5719 St. Mary's Road, Floyds Knobs. A funeral mass celebrating her life will follow at 11:00 a.m., with burial to take place in the church cemetery.

Contributions in her memory may be made to the Alzheimer's Association.