James Allen Knight

James Allen Knight, a man of deep faith and boundless friendliness, passed away on April 11, 2025, in Dothan, AL, at the age of 78. Born on January 2, 1947, in Dale County, AL, James was a beacon of selfless love and dedication throughout his life.

A proud graduate of E.R. Grimsley High School in Ashford, AL, class of 1965, James's commitment to lifelong learning and excellence paved the way for his varied and successful career. His early years were spent working at Hayes Aircraft, where he honed his skills and obtained Airframe and Powerplant licenses, demonstrating his meticulous attention to detail and passion for aviation.

James's heart, however, was always rooted in the soil of his family farm. Following the passing of his father, he and his brother Mack took over the operations, transforming it into the thriving James Knight Farm. As a dedicated farmer, James cultivated peanuts, cotton, and corn with a tender hand and an unwavering spirit, later serving his community as the Chairman of the Houston County Farm Service Agency.

His dedication to the land was matched only by his commitment to his faith. James was a faithful and active member of Sardis Missionary Baptist Church, where he not only worshipped but also led as Chairman of the Deacon Board. His voice could often be heard singing his favorite hymns, "When You Hear of My Homegoing" and "This May Be My Last Time," which resonated with the congregation and reflected his deep spiritual convictions.

Beyond his professional and spiritual pursuits, James was a man who cherished his family and community. His love story with his wife, Dorothy Moore Knight, spanned 56 years of marriage, a testament to their enduring partnership and mutual devotion. Together, they raised a son, Reginald (Connie) Knight, and a daughter, Kimberly (Ronald) Helms, instilling in them the values of hard work, faith, and love. James's legacy continues through his grandchildren, Jerica, Brandon, Kendra, and Dalyn, and his great-granddaughter, Bahni, all of whom he adored.

James's family circle extended to his siblings, brother Bobby Mack Knight Sr., and sisters Lanell Rivers, Kate Edwards, and Denise Corbitt. He also held a special place in his heart for his niece Stephanie Scott and special nephews, Bobby Knight, Jr. and Jason Edwards, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends whose lives he touched.

While his loss is deeply felt, those who knew James find comfort in the rich tapestry of memories he leaves behind. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob Knight and Ida Mae Knight Hollis, and his brothers, Billy Joe Knight and Ira Knight, all of whom he now joins in eternal peace.

James's life was characterized by his unwavering faith, his friendly demeanor, and his selfless nature. He never met a stranger, and his presence in the community was one of respect and active engagement. His love for his family ran as deep as his roots in the Alabama soil, and his memory will be cherished by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of James’s life will be held on Saturday, April 19th at 2pm in the Sunset Memorial Chapel with Rev. James Harvey, Sr. officiating. The family will receive friends an hour prior to the service at the funeral home. James will be laid to rest in the Sardis Missionary Baptist Church Cemetery in Dothan, AL.