Emmitt Franklin (Johnny) Knight, Sr., 76, of Promise Land Rd., Appomattox, died Sunday, November 29, 2009, in McGuire VA Medical Center.
Born in Luray, on March 27, 1933, he was a son of the late Raymond and Viola Manuel Knight. Johnny was founder and owner of Knight and Sons, a member of Bible Baptist Church and the County Line Hunt Club. He was a US Navy Veteran serving in the Korean War, a former officer for the Town of Appomattox Police Department and a special deputy with the Appomattox County Sherriff's Department.
He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Thelma Elizabeth Mayberry Knight; three sons, Emmitt Franklin Knight, Jr. and wife, Debbie of Spout Spring, David Willis Knight and wife, Sharon, and Michael Wayne Knight all of Appomattox; seven grandchildren, T. J. Knight, Dee Knight, Chris Knight, Daniel Knight, Stephanie Knight, Mary Beth McCormick, and John Michael Knight; eight great-grandchildren; one brother, Basil Knight of Luray; and two sisters, JoAnn Whetzel of Burkeville and Marie Mays of Luray.
He was preceded in death by his daughter, Carolyn Avris (Sissy) Knight.
Funeral services will be held 2:00 pm, Wednesday, December 2, 2009, at Bible Baptist Church by the Rev. Robert E. Lee and Pastor Paul Kvasnicka. Burial will follow in Liberty Cemetery with military rites accorded by American Legion Post #104 and VFW #9855 combined honor guard.
The family will receive friends at Bible Baptist Church Tuesday from 7-8:30 pm and other times at the residence.
Those wishing to make memorials please consider the Bible Baptist Church Building Fund, PO Box 2104, Appomattox, VA 24522.