Martha Knight

June 24, 1945 – October 31, 2025

Martha Jean Knight, beloved sister, teacher, and friend, passed away on October 31, 2025, in Tupelo, Mississippi. She was born on June 24, 1945, to Curtis and Vivian Simmons Walker.

Martha Jean spent most of her married life in Fisherville, Tennessee, where she and her husband, William T. Knight, shared 52 wonderful years together. Following his passing in 2017, she moved to Tupelo to make her home with her sister, Diane Spears.

A lifelong learner and dedicated educator, Martha Jean attended Blue Mountain College and earned her bachelor’s degree from Memphis State University. She went on to teach English in the Memphis school system, where she inspired countless students with her love of literature and language.

Martha Jean had a deep affection for animals, especially her beloved dogs and cats. She was also an avid reader—her home was filled with books from floor to ceiling, a true reflection of her curious and thoughtful spirit.

She was preceded in death by her husband, William T. Knight; her parents, Curtis and Vivian Simmons Walker; and her daughter, Elizabeth Walker Williams.

She is survived by her sister, Diane Spears and brother-in-law, Billy Spears of Tupelo; her brother- and sister-in-law, Bobby and Mary Alice Kenley of Gadsden, Alabama; and her brother- and sister-in-law, Joe and Joyce Shaw of Yukon, Oklahoma.

A graveside service to celebrate her life will be held at a later date.