JAMES KNIGHT

1934 - 2021

James Franklin Knight flew West on February 15, 2021 in Floresville, Texas at the age of 86. He was born on December 11, 1934 in Seminary, Mississippi to parents Daniel and Helen (Robertson) Knight.

Frank graduated from West Point in 1957, where he was an All-American Diver. He went on to serve in the United States Air Force as a fighter pilot for 23 years. Frank, also known as "Nails", flew F4s during his 2 combat tours in Vietnam – he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross with one oak leaf cluster. "Nails" flew F4 and F5 fighter jets, among various other aircrafts and was a charter member of the Red River Valley Fighter Pilots Association (River Rats). In 1980, after achieving his Master's degree in business from Auburn University, Frank went on to work at the Houston Space Center from 1981 – 1989. He enjoyed playing tennis and racquetball in his free time. Frank married Maria Critser on April 22, 2011 and remained married to her until his death.

Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Daniel and Helen Knight. He is survived by his loving wife, Maria; daughters, Sabrina Allen and Suzanne Simmons; sons, Jamie Knight, Daniel Knight and Gregory Knight; as well as many grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life will take place at 12:30PM on March 16, 2021 at Schertz Funeral Home Chapel with interment to follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery.