Wayne Lee Knight

Wayne Lee Knight, age 82, transitioned to his heavenly home on February 1, 2026, at St. Vincent Hospital. Wayne was born on December 13, 1943, in Searcy, Arkansas, to the late W.L. Knight and Corrine Knight. He was a graduate of Griffithville High School, Class of 1962. He was preceded in death by his sister, Judy Ann Nichols; his brother-in-law, Sonny Nichols; and two of their children, Tim Nichols and Ann Nichols. He is survived by their son, Martin Nichols, and his wife, Rene Nichols. He was also preceded in death by his in-laws, Hubert Floyd Ross and Eva Ann Ross of Bald Knob, Arkansas, and his sister-in-law, Donna Edwards. He is survived by Donna’s son, Monty Thompson, and his wife, Traci Thompson. Wayne is also survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Virginia Sue Knight; two sons, Kenny Wayne Knight of Searcy, Arkansas, married to Christina Knight, and Jeremy Craig Knight of Mobile, Alabama, married to Amy Payne Knight. He was a proud grandfather known as Papaw to Brantley Wayne Knight, Spencer Craig Knight, and Catherine Renee Knight, and a loving great-grandfather to Josie Knight and Eva Ann Knight. He is also survived by three step-grandchildren: Mykal Henderson, John Hatcher III, and Nicholas Hatcher. Wayne was known for his strong work ethic throughout his life. He built custom cabinets and owned his own cabinet shop for many years before transitioning into the funeral service industry. For more than 40 years, he faithfully served White County and was affectionately known by many as the “gravedigger” of White County. If you knew Wayne, you knew how deeply he loved his farm, where he raised cattle and created countless memories. He took great joy in hosting family gatherings, parties, and even weddings at the farm fondly known as “Wayne’s World.” It was truly his happy place. A celebration of Wayne’s life will be held on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Powell Funeral Home in Bald Knob, Arkansas. Visitation for family and friends will begin at 1:00 p.m., followed by the service at 2:00 p.m. An additional visitation will be held on Thursday, February 5, 2026, from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Powell Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Shady Grove Cemetery in Bald Knob. Arrangements are entrusted to Powell Funeral Home, Bald Knob – Judsonia. www.powellfuneralhome.net

Wayne Lee Knight

December 13, 1943 - February 1, 2026