John G.F. Knight's Obituary
John G.F. Knight, age 89 of Gainesville, passed away Sunday, November 30, 2014 in North Florida Regional Medical Center. He was born May 1, 1925 in Orlando, Florida to John P. and Mercedes Ingram Knight. John proudly served his country in the United States Infantry as a First Lieutenant and was a recipient of the Bronze Star and Combat Infantryman Badge. He attended the University of Florida where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in accounting. A certified public accountant, John was a partner of Purvis, Gray and Company. John was married to Fay Mangham Knight in 1953. From 1988 to 2006 Fay and John spent half of each year as summer residents in their North Carolina home. They were members of the Waynesville Country Club and enjoyed golf and many other activities there. Fay preceded him in death in 2011.
John was very involved in his community having been a member of Beta Theta Pi (Past State Alumni President), Masonic Lodge (Past Master), Shriners, Gainesville Country Club (Past President), Elks, V.F.W., Quarterback Club, UF President’s Council and a charter member of Kiwanis where he was a member of Original Eight “Nucleus Group” to begin the club, Treasurer for five years, Legion of Honor and served on numerous committees. He was named Who’s Who in the South and Southwest America 1965 to 1971, Peer Reviewer of CPA firms throughout the United States, served on Peer Review Committees, both National and State, and was Investigating Officer for State Board of Accountancy.
John is survived by his step-son, Gerald W. Jones, Jr., and his wife, Connie; step-daughter, Sara Ann Kimball; four grandchildren and two great grandchildren; brother, Robert D. Knight and nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife Fay and sister, Miriam K. Vinson.
A Memorial Service will be held Monday, December 22, 2014 at 11:00 a.m., in First United Methodist Church, with Rev. Sara McKinley officiating. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorials to First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First Street, Gainesville, FL 32601.
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