Harvey Lee McKnight, Sr.

Harvey Lee McKnight, Sr. was born on April 4, 1946 in the small community of Buckhorn, Arkansas, which is close to Aubrey.  He was one of six children born to James and Sophie McKnight.  Harvey and his siblings grew up around Aubrey, attending school and church in the close-knit rural area.

After deciding to leave his studies behind him, Harvey eventually decided to join the U. S. Army.  In July of 1970, he received his honorable hardship discharge.  He returned home and he farmed for a couple of years before beginning logging work with Lonnie Moore.

On July 25, 1970, Harvey married his sweetheart, Betty.  The couple were married for 19 years before sadly deciding to divorce.  However, three children came from their union and Harvey and Betty would remain close friends for the rest of his life.

Harvey is survived by his two sons, Harvey L. McKnight, Jr. and David McKnight, both of Marvell; seven grandchildren, Lane Dyar, Andi Dyar, Ashley Powers, Jacob Powers, Ashleigh Williams, Bronson Williams, Sr. and Candace McKnight; five great-grandchildren, Nolan Powers, Isaac Powers, Bronson Williams, Jr., Brianna Williams and Arianna Williams; one brother, Owen McKnight; three sisters, Frances “Sissy” Hinkle (Tony), Susan Kennedy (Richard), and Sylvia Cole (Chuck); the mother of his children and close friend, Betty O’Neal;  and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James McKnight and Sophie Irene Lovell McKnight; daughter, Veronica J. McKnight; and his brother, Jimmy McKnight.

A memorial service for Harvey will be held on Monday, January 22, 2024 at Bob Neal & Sons Brickell Funeral Home in Marvell.  The service will coincide with his son's funeral.  Visitation with the family will begin at 10 a.m. and the service for Harvey, Sr. and Harvey, Jr. will be at 11 a.m.