Class of '67
Obituary - Coach Bobby Knight
Bobby Vernon Knight
Coach
March 12, 1930 - August 8, 2016
Bobby Vernon Knight, Sr was born to Mary Ethel Highsmith and Elijah Sinclair Knight on March 12, 1930 in Paola, Florida. He left this world peacefully in the late evening hours of August 8 with his beloved grandson Elijah by his side.
Bobby attended Robert E Lee High School in Jacksonville, FL where he met his future wife Muriel Jones. After graduation, they both traveled to Gainesville to study at the University of Florida. While there, he excelled at sports, lettering not only in football wearing #81, but in baseball, basketball and track as well! His time at Florida was interrupted when he chose to serve his country in the Army during the Korean War.
Bobby began his coaching career as an assistant coach for the Florida Gator team. He then worked in Live Oak, FL. Upon returning to Jacksonville, Bobby coached football at Jean Ribault High School, later serving as principal there. His career continued as principal of Terry Parker High School until he was made Area Director for the Duval County School System. He was then promoted to Assistant Superintendent and remained in that office until his retirement in 1990. During his long and distinguished career he touched the lives of countless young people. They were impressed and empowered by the example he set. Bobby was the epitome of integrity, kindness and generosity. His work ethic was beyond compare.
Bobby returned to Gainesville again and again to cheer on his Florida Gators! He loved horses. He enjoyed nature and gardening. He took great pride in his yard in Arlington which won several awards. But more than anything, Bobby adored his family. He never missed an event, large or small that his grandchildren participated in. Family dinners were a regular occurrence as they grew up.
Bobby is predeceased by his dear wife of over sixty years, Muriel. He is survived by his daughter Cynthia Ann Knight Griffith and his son Bobby Knight, Jr (Marcy); his grandchildren Ryan Knight, Heather Herring (Dale), Brandi Combs (Jay), Elijah Knight, and Brianna Knight; and his great-grandchildren Trey, Cheyenne, Destiny, Daniel, Alexis, Savanna, Steven and Kaylee.
A graveside service is scheduled for 11AM, Monday, August 15, 2016 at Arlington Park Cemetery, 6920 Lone Star Road, Jacksonville, Florida 32211, (904) 724-6384, with Rev. Patrice Spencer officiating.The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Northeast Florida Community Hospice.
