Joan “Joni” Evans Knight of McKinney, Texas passed away April 27, 2025 at the age of 80. She was born to John and Violet (Wilson) Evans on December 25, 1944 in Gassville, Arkansas.
The family resided in Flippin, Arkansas until 1954, then moved to Duncanville, Texas. Joni graduated from Duncanville High School, class of 1962. She was a basketball star, holding several titles and records. She moved to California in 1962 where she worked in a research lab at UCLA Medical School alongside Dr. Robert Grossman. Coincidentally, he was one of two neurosurgeons on staff that attended to aid President Kennedy after his assassination. Joni was very proud of her work during that time and spoke of it often.
On December 3, 1971 she married the love of her life, Bob Knight in Dallas, Texas. Bob and Joni gave birth to their son, Josh in 1973. They lived next door to her sister Gwen and her husband Robert in Lucas, Texas where they raised their children and had many adventures. In 1995 they built their dream farm in Winnsboro, Texas. Joni’s passion was being outdoors, working in her garden, and taking care of her pets. She adored the kitties she had over the years, even the one that refused to leave the pantry. She loved nature and could identify most birds native to the area.
Bob & Joni eventually landed in McKinney in 2005. Josh, Hollie, Madelyn & Olivia moved ½ mile away from them in 2007. Joni, aka “Nee Nee” kept Olivia during the day until she started Kindergarten. She treasured those days and loved having both of her granddaughters around her and was elated when great-grandson Maverick joined us in 2022.
Joni was strong. She battled Rheumatoid Arthritis for over 40 years. Despite the immense pain she was in most of the time, she did not complain. She was kind, funny, loving, and a great listener, giving no judgment. She loved her sisters fiercely and looked forward to their phone calls and visits.
Bob and Joni built a legacy we can only aspire to attain. They are now dancing in heaven together.
Joni is survived by her son, Josh Knight and wife, Hollie of McKinney, Texas; grandchildren, Madelyn Lytle and Olivia Knight; great grandson, Maverick Alaniz; sister, Gwen Henderson of McKinney, Texas; sister, Chris Case and husband Roger of Levelland, Texas; nieces, nephews and many treasured friends.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Bob Knight, her parents John and Violet Evans, and beloved nephew, Mitch Henderson.
The family will receive guests for a remembrance gathering at 1:00 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 2:00 p.m., Saturday May 10, 2025 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home in Allen, Texas. The service will also be live streamed at the following link: https://celebrationoflife.tv/blog/joan-joni-evans-knight.
The family invites you to join them at the home of Bob and Joan following the service at 2205 Hobkirks Hill, McKinney, Texas for a reception.