Thomas Jackson Knight

May 5, 1932 - July 24, 2022
Thomas Jackson Knight

Memorial Gifts & Donations


Thomas Jackson “Jack” Knight (affectionately known as Gran and Gran-Bear), 90, of Wilmington, NC died peacefully at his home on Sunday July 24, 2022.

He was born in Lancaster, SC on May 5, 1932, son of the late Andrew Jackson and Faye Christine Knight. Jack was also preceded in death by three sisters Janice Orr and her husband Hack; Myrtis Stroud and her husband Lawrence; Dot Murphy and her husband Frank; and two brothers Andy Knight and his wife Elaine and Don Knight and brother-in-law Randy Williams.

Jack served in the United States Air Force for twenty-two years, with the majority of his assignment spent in San Antonio, Texas. He was a faithful member of Winter Park Baptist Church in Wilmington, NC for the last 47 years. He enjoyed his men’s Sunday School class and participating in church and community service projects. As a deacon and usher, Jack was mindful of those who were homebound, offering to drive them to appointments or church and assisting them with other needs. Jack loved cars and was a self-taught mechanic. He liked fixing anything and making it better than new. Most of all he loved Earline, who caught his eye in the 11th grade and put a smile in his heart that never faded. He loved his family and especially spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Surviving are his loving wife of 70 years, Earline Adams Knight and two daughters, Jackie Phillips and husband Randy and Patsy Merritt and husband Mike, grandchildren Travis Phillips and wife Joy; Bret Phillips and wife Abby; Adam Merritt, Natalie Gainey and husband Brent; 14 great-grandchildren and two sisters Shirley Thompson and Nancy Williams, sister-in-law June Knight and many nieces and nephews.

The memorial service with Military Honors will be held on Saturday August 6, 2022 at 1:00pm at Winter Park Baptist Church.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Laura Trumm, his friend and helper who made it possible for him to stay in his home. Also, to Dawn Grimesey, who assisted in care giving. Lastly to the staff of Lower Cape Fear Hospice.

Memorials may be sent to Winter Park Baptist Church or Lower Cape Fear Hospice 1414 Physicians Drive Wilmington, NC 28401.

Share memories and condolences with the family by visiting the “Tribute Wall” below and view the “Video Tribute”

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation 1535 S. 41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403. 910.791.9099



Tribute Wall

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  • August 05, 2022
    David Leinwand says:
    Fortunate to be Jack’s neighbor for the last 5 years. An honor to know such a wonderful man who served his country for many years. Enjoyed the many conversations we had in his yard. Loved his humor. Miss you Jack.

  • August 04, 2022
    KAREN WINDHAM says:
    Patsy and family, you and your are in our thoughts and prayers. Love you all. Karen and family

  • July 29, 2022
    Sherry Spencer says:
    So sorry for your loss Ms. Earline, Patsy and the rest of your dear family. May you Know God’s Peace now and in the days ahead. We send our love and condolences Sherry and Joel Spencer

  • July 29, 2022
    Melody and Justin Newell says:
    Mrs. Knight, Patsy and family, You are in our thoughts and prayers. Mr. Jack would come by and see our daddy and sometimes never said a word but held his hand; daddy took comfort just knowing he was there. Justin has missed him at Chick-fil-A, he'd say regular today and Mr. Jack always smiled and said yes. Mr. Jack was taken to heaven on what would have been daddy's 94th birthday. Daddy always looked forward to driving the bus if Mr. Jack was on because he'd always ask ya think you can get this thing out the parking lot, then on the road daddy would ask Jack that answer your question and they'd laugh. So many special memories our family has shared. Our love and Prayers,

  • July 28, 2022
    Wes says:
    He used to come eat lunch with his daughter Patsy every Friday. I always enjoyed talking with him and teased him by calling him"Friday" and letting him know I was always excited to see him because it meant the weekend was here! He was a good man and will be missed by many.