Dr. Lester Neal Knight

Dr. Lester (Les) Neal Knight, 90, of Knoxville, Tennessee went home to his Heavenly Father on November 13, 2025. Les was born in Mineral Wells, Texas. An only child to James Lester and Jessie Faye Knight.
After graduating from high school, he left for Oklahoma and attended Bethany Nazarene College. He met his lovely and beautiful wife, Patsy Robinson there. They married in June 1957 in Patsy's hometown of Waco, Texas. Not long after they moved to Austin, Texas, started their family, and Les pursued his doctoral degree at the University of Texas. In 1969 he received his PhD in Philosophy of Education. He was proud to be a part of the Longhorn family.
After graduating, he moved his family to Des Moines, lowa where he became a professor at Drake university, and after just a year had an opportunity to work for the University of Tennessee. At the University of Tennessee, he was a professor in the College of Education, Curriculum and Instruction. He loved working in the continuing education of his students and collaborating with other faculty members. He especially loved his ongoing classes in language and development.
Les retired as Professor Emeritus from the University of Tennessee in 2005. During his 35 years as a professor, he was truly grateful for all the administrative staff that assisted him tirelessly.
During his time in Knoxville and at UT, Les became a loyal follower of the University of Tennessee Volunteers, while he always had a soft spot for the Longhorns, he traded burnt orange for Big Orange. He loved following the Vols and of course was always super excited with Big Orange victories!
He was a voracious reader. He loved books on current events and political figures but especially enjoyed reading on history. American history was his favorite.
Les also loved music, especially the sacred hymns and classical music. He was a phenomenal pianist and organist. As a member of Cedar Springs Presbyterian church, he was the church pianist for twelve years. After leaving CSPC, Les became a member of Central Baptist, Bearden and was able to participate in their musical programs as well. He absolutely loved playing their organ for fellow members and the congregation.
While Les had many accomplishments, what he considered most important was his love for Christ and his love for his family. He was devoted in his stewardship of his family for the gospel of Christ. He was a dedicated dad and grandfather, his guidance and support were a constant, and his love was steadfast.
Les is preceded in death by his wife, Patsy Robinson Knight and his parents, James Lester and Jessie Faye Knight.
He is survived by his children, Tim Knight; Becky Cameron (husband, Rob); Kent Knight; grandchildren, Jake Knight and Jackson Knight.
And finally, as Les stated recently upon hearing of the death of a family member and wonderful friend, "His absence from the body, means he is present with the LORD." (2 Corinthians 5:8) Les knew to live is Christ and to die is gain.
There will be a private graveside service for the family with Minister Mark Moreland officiating.