Gary Dane Knight

Gary Dane Knight, age 79, of Union Grove, Alabama, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026. Gary was born on June 30, 1946, at home in Union Grove, Alabama, to Tommy Knight and Janie Knight. He was a lifelong resident of Union Grove and took great pride in his roots and community. In 1970, Gary married Carol Thomas of Blountsville, Alabama. They shared 42 years of marriage until her passing in 2012, building a life grounded in faith, family, and hard work. Gary proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era, completing four years of active and reserve duty. He dedicated his entire 43-year career to Metal Research in Guntersville, Alabama, where he worked as a machinist until his retirement in 2012. His work made meaningful contributions to military defense efforts and the Space Shuttle Program, a source of quiet pride throughout his life. A man of deep faith and service, Gary was a devoted member of New Friendship Baptist Church. Over the years, he faithfully served as Deacon, Chairman of Deacons, teacher, and for decades as church treasurer, roles he carried out with integrity, humility, and dedication. Gary will be remembered as a faithful servant, devoted family man, and steady presence whose life reflected commitment, service, and quiet strength. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Tommy and Janie Knight, his wife Carol Knight, and his brothers Ray Knight and L.C. Knight. He is survived by his sister Gail White; his son Dr. Terry Knight and wife Christy; his daughter Kim Willis and husband Mark; and his beloved grandchildren Parker Knight, Evan Knight and wife Abby, and Kaitlyn Willis. Funeral service will be 11:00am Friday, January 30, 2026 at New Friendship Baptist Church. The family will greet friends and guests for a short visitation from 10:00 until the service begins at 11:00. Officiating services will be Evan Knight and Daniel Boutwell with Terry Knight presenting the eulogy. Burial will be in the adjoining cemetery with Parker Knight, Randy Bryant, Erik Lindley, Nick Knight, Jeff Blankenship and Langton Pomije serving as pallbearers. Arab Heritage Memorial Chapel assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to New Friendship Baptist Church, P.O. BOX 648, Arab, AL 35016.

Gary Dane Knight

June 30, 1946 - January 27, 2026