Winona C. Knight, 78, of Robertsdale, Alabama, was born on Oct. 5, 1938 and on Sept. 24, 2017 left this earth to be with our Lord in Heaven.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Ron Knight; her mother and stepfather, Edna and Benjamin Duckworth; her sister, Janet Kinsey; and her precious pooch, Freckles.
She is survived by daughter, Jackie (Rex) Knowlton (Orange Beach, Alabama), two grandchildren, Gretchen (Bryan) Clarke (Gulf Breeze, Florida), Chad (Alexandria) Knowlton (Robertsdale, Alabama), three great-grandchildren, (Chloe and Emorie Clarke and Scarlett Knowlton); her sister, Glenda Spahr (Pensacola, Florida); honorary sister, Gloria Raynes (Katy, Texas); stepchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins in Alabama, Texas, Georgia, Louisiana, Nevada, California, Tennessee and Dubai; along with countless friends who became extended family.
Winona (also known as Granny and (Aunt) Noni) was a member of Robertsdale High School class of 1957.
She had a passion for giving and was willing to help anyone. Her mission of generosity continues even in her death as she has chosen to donate her body to science and medical research. Her hope was for future medical professionals to learn from what she had to give.
This is so fitting as much of her corporate career was in a hospital setting. Her guidance in environmental management services at both Children's Hospital (of New Orleans, Louisiana) and South Baldwin Hospital (of Foley, Alabama) improved patient care. She was recognized for her leadership by hospital executives and countless families for her service.
In 1974, she became the first woman to serve on Robertsdale's City Council.
She was a voracious reader, talented painter, independent woman, accomplished professional (over 50 years in the workforce) and social butterfly. Butterflies being her favorite.
Winona will live in our hearts forever. She modeled her life with love in the center because love is the greatest attribute that never ends. (1 Corinthians 13:1-13).
While it is hard for us now, her loving example and spirit gives us all so much to learn from and remember.
In lieu of flowers, Winona's family asks that you honor her through a donation to your favorite charity. Winona supported St. Jude's, various disabled veterans' charities and Baldwin County Humane Society.
Services will be held on Thursday, Sept. 28, 2017 at 10 a.m. at Saint Patrick's Catholic Church, 23035 Hwy. 59 N., Robertsdale, AL 36567.
Arrangements by Mack Funeral Home, Robertsdale.
