COBB COUNTY, Ga. — Co-workers and friends of a teacher killed during a carjacking say he tried to help people like the ones who took his life. The educator’s friends, family and colleagues say he was one of a kind.
Slater Elementary fourth grade teacher Ricardo Knox, 28, was serious about education, and just as serious about making a difference in the lives of the young students he taught.
“He did an outstanding job inspiring students. You could often hear him telling children to do the best that they can do,” former co-worker Tonya Williams-Saunders said.
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Knox’s sister, Diamond Knox, said her brother was “one of kind.”
“And was intellectual. (He) had perseverance traits, and his work ethic was just unmatched,” Diamond Knox said.
Cobb County police say a carjacker shot and killed Knox at the Westhaven at Vinings apartments Monday night. Officers aren’t releasing many details but say they are actively pursuing leads.
Diamond Knox, who is also a teacher, said her brother was very interested in giving back to his community.
“We wanted to ensure that we would be able to set a lifelong legacy for those kids that are similar to us,” she said.
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Teacher Joshua Thurston grew up with Knox.
“Man, when I first heard the news I honestly couldn’t consume it. I couldn’t believe it,” he said.
Thurston said Knox’s killer took away someone who was trying to help people like them.
“It’s like, you guys don’t know that you took an individual who was a pillar of the community, who gave back to the community and changed other young men’s lives,” Thurston said.
Knox insisted his students dress well so they could make a good first impression. The fourth grade teacher was known to go into his own pocket to buy school supplies and even feed kids.
Ricardo Knox will be laid to rest Tuesday.
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