William E. Knight, 1924-2002

  In her poem "God’s Appointed Work," Jean Ingelow writes the following:

  William E. Knight heard God’s call upon his life long before he became an ordained clergyman in the United Methodist Church. A proud graduate of Randolph-Macon College and Duke Divinity School, his ministry led him from policeman to pastor. In the former, he did what he could to uphold civil law, aid those in distress, and encourage others toward a better life. In the latter, as a clergyman, he embraced the family of God with love in his heart, kindness in his spirit, and joy in sharing the message of the living God. While a student at Duke he served two churches in the North Carolina Conference. Serving as a faithful member of the Virginia Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church for 40 years, he had the privilege of ministering to six churches in the conference, was richly blessed when selected to be district superintendent in Lynchburg for six years, and completed his tenure in the conference as director of Higher Education and Campus Ministries.

  Being a servant of Christ was always Bill’s "felt calling." Following his retirement he sought to serve his Lord and help others. He worked part-time as a visiting pastor in Richmond, volunteered as a chaplain for Retreat Hospital, was a volunteer for the State Fair of Virginia, and a volunteer at Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens.

  In all things, Bill Knight served with welcomed humor, a sincere spirit, and always with a cheerful heart. Truly he was a man with special gifts and graces called forth to make a difference in this world "under God’s appointment." He was a good and faithful servant of God who has now gone to be with his Lord. All who knew him will miss him, especially his family that he loved so dearly. He was a blessing to all.