Hugh Wendell McKnight

Hugh Wendell McKnight Sr. passed away on Sunday, January 31, 2016, at Parkway Village Nursing Home in Little Rock, Arkansas. He was predeceased by his parents, Rosa Esther and Andrew Franklin McKnight, and three sisters, Mada Floyd, Norma Lee Gates, and Pernie Lee McKnight. He is survived by his wife of 72 years, Arie Anna Williamson McKnight of Benton, Arkansas, four sons and daughters-in-law, Hugh Wendell McKnight II, (Linda) of Greers Ferry Lake, George Franklin McKnight, (Sudy) of Cardinal, Virginia, Ronnie Glynn McKnight, (Jana) of Maumelle, Ark., Andrew Carroll McKnight, (Kathi) of Alexander, Ark., and one daughter and son-in-law, Betty Rose Sitz, (Karl) of Benton, Ark., 10 grandchildren, 13 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces and nephews. Hugh McKnight was born on October 6, 1924, in Bee Branch, Arkansas. He grew up in Little Rock and graduated from Little Rock High School. He served in the United States Navy from 1943-1945 serving from Guantanamo, Cuba, to Port of Spain, Trinidad. He worked for Missouri Pacific Railroad for 42 years. He worked as a messenger boy during his early years then worked as a truck driver then was chief clerk. He was dedicated to his job and worked all those years without taking a sick day. He was a member of Immanuel Baptist church in Little Rock for 75 years where he served as a deacon. He loved his Lord and served him well. After retirement he and Arie Anna moved to Greers Ferry Lake where he loved to garden and share his produce with family, friends and neighbors. He mowed acres of land in his spare time. He was an avid golfer for years and loved playing with his preacher, W.O. Vaught. He was a faithful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He will be missed by many. To God be the glory! Visitation will be held in the Gathering Place at Immanuel Baptist Church, 501 N. Shackleford Road, Little Rock on Wednesday, February 3, 2016 from 12 noon-1 p.m. Funeral Services will immediately follow at 1 p.m. in the auditorium. Arrangements are made by Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, 13801 Chenal Parkway, Little Rock, Arkansas 72211, (501) 224-8300. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to IBC Missions fund at Immanuel Baptist Church.