Charles Watts Knight

Charles Watts Knight, 87, of Chesterfield, SC a cherished family man, respected businessman, and dedicated public servant, passed away peacefully on January 19, 2025 surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 5, 1937 in Pageland, South Carolina to the late Woodrow "Bill" Knight and Edith Watts Knight. Charles lived a full and vibrant life that touched many within his community and beyond. He was predeceased by his wife of 62 years, Joanne Mills Knight; his brothers, Billy Knight and John Wilson "Buck" Knight, Sr. and sisters, Bobbie K. Rivers and Nancy Carelock.
Charles, known affectionately to friends and family as simply "Charles," was a man of integrity and warmth. His early years in Pageland were filled with the joys of rural life, where he developed a love for the outdoors that would last a lifetime. After completing his education, Charles embarked on a career that would see him become the owner and operator of Sealtest Milk Distribitors, a role that showcased his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to providing excellent service.
Following his tenure with Sealtest, Charles continued to apply his strong work ethic as a truck driver for Dupont. Even in retirement, he remained active in the workforce, taking on a position as a security guard at CMC Union. His dedication to his work was matched only by his commitment to his community, as evidenced by his four-year service on the Town Council of Pageland, SC.
An outdoorsman at heart, Charles relished the times he spent hunting and fishing. His younger days were filled with the care of horses and cows, and even as he aged, he never lost his passion for the simple pleasures of life. He could often be found riding through the country, admiring tractors and taking in the beauty of the land he loved so dearly.
Above all, Charles was a family man. He is survived by his loving sons, Wayne Knight (Sharon) of Aiken, SC, Steven Knight (Linda) of Chesterfield, SC, and Casey Mills (Meredith) of Pageland, SC; his devoted daughter, Martha Knight of Chesterfield, SC; and his sister, Sylvia Rogers of Pageland, SC. Charles's legacy also lives on through his adored grandchildren, Kelsey Knight Young (Sean), Andy Knight (Brie), and Mainor Knight.
There will be a Celebration of Life Funeral Service on Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Baumgartner Funeral Home, Pageland, SC, with Pastor Rodney Nicholson officiating. The burial will follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park of Pageland.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to Gentiva Hospice and especially thank Nora Richardson for all of her help and compassion she showed towards Charles and his late wife, Joanne.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105, the Alzheimer's Research, Donor Services, C/O Joanne's Crew Walking Team, 225 North Michigan Avenue, 17th Floor, Chicago, Illinois 60601, or Samaritan's Purse, PO Box 3000, Boone, NC 28607.
Arrangements are entrusted to Baumgartner Funeral Home of Pageland, South Carolina (www.baumgartnerfh.com).