Mary Eileen McKnight

Mary Eileen McKnight, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, scientist, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 12th, 2024. Born on December 31, 1939, in McCook, Nebraska, to Glenwood and Anna Schmelzer, Mary grew up on her family’s farm near Culbertson. She attended a one-room schoolhouse for her early education, later graduating from Culbertson High School, where she met her future husband, Ronald McKnight. Together, they went on to study at the University of Nebraska, where Mary completed a degree in Chemistry and went on to earn her PhD performing quantum mechanics calculations, a remarkable achievement in an era with few women in the physical sciences.

Mary began her career at the Lovelace Foundation for Medical Education and Research, contributing to pioneering work in aerosol research. She worked briefly in adhesives research at Avery Corporation before ultimately joining the Building and Fire Research Division at the Bureau of Standards (now NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland. Over her tenure, she consulted on coatings for federal buildings, advised on lead abatement practices and testing, and played a pivotal role in advancing 20 ASTM standards, leading to national recognition, including the National Lead Abatement Council Recognition Award in 1993 and the Department of Commerce Bronze Medal in 1995.

Outside of work, Mary found joy in family, gardening, and the arts. Her green thumb led to a garden filled with rare and beautiful plants, and her dedication to local ecology inspired her to volunteer extensively with the Friends of Black Hills Nature Program, where she enjoyed the company of fellow volunteers, and led the annual native plant sale for many years. A skilled quilter, Mary created intricate designs alongside a group of close friends, sharing her passion for crafts with her children and grandchildren.

Mary and Ron raised three sons: Steven, James, and Geoffrey. A devoted mother, she was always present to offer support, help with homework, or bake a homemade cake for special occasions. She made every holiday meaningful with her famous tri-rolls and festive meals and encouraged her sons to explore cooking, music, and learning in a home that was always open to family and friends. Mary’s support extended into her role as a grandmother to seven grandchildren, with whom she shared her patience, warmth, and love for learning.

Mary’s quiet strength, integrity, and pioneering spirit left a lasting legacy. Known for her humility and selflessness, she was often the driving force behind her family’s success, all while achieving distinction in her career and generously giving her time to her community.

She is survived by her husband, Ron; sons Steven, James, and Geoffrey; her sister Evelyn, and her grandchildren Jack, Sammy, Todd, Holden, Anna Kathleen, Lua, and Kyle who will honor her legacy with love and gratitude.

A Celebration of Life will be held on November 27, 2024 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Botanero Restaurant in Rockville, Maryland. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Friends of Black Hills Nature Programs at https://www.friendsofblackhillnature.org/donate.