Celebrating the life of
Jeanie Matthews Knight
Passed away on October 20, 2018
Isla Jean (Jeanie) Matthews Knight, beloved wife of John Carlton Knight, Jr, passed peacefully away on October 20, 2018 in her home surrounded by family after her long and courageous battle with cancer. Jeanie was born in Savannah, Georgia on May 7, 1953 to Walter “Matt” Matthews and the late Estelle Davis Matthews.
Jeanie lived her whole life in Savannah, graduating from Herschel V. Jenkins High School. She attended Georgia Southern University and Armstrong University, graduating with a BS in Education. Jeanie and Carlton married April 28, 1973 and have been an exemplar of a couple deeply in love and devoted to one another. They had three wonderful (and lively!) sons, and Jeanie was the center of energy in their home. While the boys attended St. Andrews School over a period of 23 years, Jeanie and Carlton became some of the most involved parents there. Jeanie extended her natural organizing and creative skills into assisting with and leading events, school trips, supporting sports programs, and becoming the driving force behind the successful St. Andrews cookbook, “First Come, First Served”.
Jeanie was a natural born teacher and worked at both St. Andrews and Royce Academy. She had endless patience with those students needing that little extra attention with reading and language arts skills. Seeing those students improve and develop a love of reading was one of the greatest pleasures in her life. She was delighted to see some of those early learners (and their parents) later in their lives, as they thanked her for the hours of tutoring and help she gave them. Jeanie loved her students and they loved her.
There is no doubt, however, that Jeanie considered her sons the crowning glory of her contributions to this world and she devoted her entire adult life to the three of them. She adored being their mother and was considered a “second mother” by so many of their friends. Nothing made her happier than when she was surrounded by “her boys.” Jeanie became a grandmother on October 10, with the birth of her oldest son’s daughter.
Jeanie was diagnosed with cancer 8 and ½ years ago and from the beginning was determined to fight – alongside her husband, Carlton. Together they were an imposing team. Because of her iron will and Carlton’s daily attention to her health and continuous research for new medical solutions, together they were able to assure her many more years of life than predicted. They serve as examples of true courage to all who know them.
In addition to her husband, father and granddaughter, Jeanie is survived by her sons, John Carlton Knight (Trey), III (Mimi) of Knoxville, TN., Matthew Davis Knight of Big Sky, MT. and Wesley McGrady Knight of Raleigh, NC. Also, her sister Stelly Matthews Driggers of Rincon, GA. and her mother-in-law, Claire McGrady Knight. Jeanie is also survived by loving in-laws, nieces, nephews and a host of long-time friends.
In addition to her mother, Jeanie was predeceased by her father-in-law, John (Jug) Carlton Knight, brother-in-law Richard Knight and nephew Brian Knight.
Please join the family for a celebration of Jeanie’s life. Visitation will be held at Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel, 4605 Hwy. 80 E, Thursday, October 25th from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.
Funeral service at Asbury Memorial United Methodist Church, 1008 E. Henry Street, Friday, October 26th at 11:00 a.m.
Interment at Hillcrest Abbey Memorial Park Cemetery.
The family requests that remembrances in honor of Jeanie be sent to: Masonic Home of Georgia, P.O. Box 4183, Macon, GA. 31208.
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Knight family, may fond memories provide solace for your loss during these most difficult times. God has assured us that we will see our loved ones again “John 5:28,29”
- Sheila, , Ga
Jeanie ... Thank you so much for your absolutely wonderful mentoring & friendship at St. Andrew’s School & helping me to be a great room mother for Tim’s class of 2009 from 4K - 12th grade ... And for your wonderful dedication to the “First Come .., First Served “ Cookbook ...and for your Wordly Wise Card’s instructions !!! And I so enjoyed our SAS football practice Happy Hours over the phone my friend !!! Miss you & Love You Jeanie !!! ????
- Sue, Mike & Tim Svoboda, Savannah, GA ,
Carlton and the Boys We were so sadden to hear the news of Jeanie's passing. Our prayers will be with you all in the days ahead . The Lord has you in his hands .
- David and Jerina Boylston, Jacksonville, Fl
So sorry Carlton. I can only imagine how hard she fought. Wish I could be there. She will still watch over you and the boys.
- Fred Knight, Yuma, AZ
My condolences to the family I am sorry for your your loss but there is hope for mankind , our God Jehovah has promised mankind a resurrection so we can see our love again.please read John 5:28,29 this scripture will give you strength and hope. Again I am sorry for your your loss.
- Cooper, Savannah , Ga
Dear Carlton, Stelly, Walt & families, I am so sorry to hear of Jeanie's passing. My family & hers have been friends since 1960 and I cherish those early remembrances of Jeanie. Please know our prayers & condolences are with you at this time.
- Margaret Mitchell Costa , Jacksonville , Florida
Carlton sorry to hear of your loss prayers to you and your family.
- Larry Sims, Savannah, Ga
Carlton sorry to hear of your loss prayers to you and your family.
- Larry Sims, Savannah, Ga
Dear Carlton, Trey, Matt, and Wesley, I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Jeanie was a very dedicated, caring, and loving woman, who worked tirelessly for all that she believed in. She loved her family and her community, and put that love into everything she did. Sending my prayers to your family. My family has you in our thoughts and are hoping that you all are doing okay.
- Caroline Verner, Savannah, GA
Our prayers and thoughts are w/ Carlton and his family, we have always admired their love for each other and their family, a true guiding light!
- Mark / sandy lovell, Savannah,
Our hearts are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Jeanie! There has been no greater champion partner teacher for Children Inspiring Hope than Jeanie! She began, full heartedly, going above and beyond in bridging her students- hearts and minds- with those in Ghana. She enabled the first excursion to a waterfall for our leaders group! She sent a litany of well wishing cards to Vida, when she too battled cancer. The Ghana bracelets she wore were a continual reminder of the beauty of the bridge her creativity built on another continent. Her legacy will live on in the lives of those she touched, near and far, by what she instilled in them. We will forever remember her beauty, love, enthusiasm, and care for all of us. Rest in perfect peace! I hope your dancing with Vida in heaven and will guide us still! Love from the entire Children Inspiring Hope family!
- Amy Gaylor Nedriga, Savannah , Ga
Our heart felt condolences to you and Family.May the Lord Bless all and comfort all.Jeanie was a Beautiful person .She will never be forgotten.Great memories with Jeanie and the boys at My Play School.Love and prayers.Carolyn Moore
- Carolyn and Harris Moore Sr., Savannah, GA
Dear Carlton, Trey, Matt and Wesley and all, - I was so saddened to hear of the transition of Jeanie. What an angel she was on this earth- God must of needed her energy and love in heaven. I send a lot of love and hugs your way! Also that God holds you close and comforts you during this time of loss and in the future. I feel it was a priviledge to have called Jeanie my friend for many many years. Love- Dolores Pearson Barthelmess (Autry)
- Dolores Barthelmess, Ellijay, GA
Carlton and the entire Knight and Mathews family, we want to express our sincerest condolences having just learned of Jeanie's passing. Our prayer is that you will find strength, peace, and comfort in the days to come knowing that Jeanie is with our Lord God and suffering no more. She will forever be in your hearts and in your minds with loving memories of a life filled with good times. May God bless you all.
- Phil and Mary Rahal, Savannah, GA
Carlton and Family,. I am deeply sadden to hear of Jeanie's passing. I have fond memories of her growing up at Whitefield Methodist Church. May the Lord bless you, your boys and your entire family. In christian live, Frances Thomson Kennedy
- Frances Thomson Kennedy, Reidsville, GA
From the first day we met, I new Jeanie to be a beautiful person, who became a wonderful friend. Over the many years our families have shared joys and sorrows, special events and holiday meals, Jeanie became like a sister to me and Torrey, while gladly accepting the role of a second mother to our sons Will and Ty. I will remember her most for her positive "can do" attitude and her loving approach to everything she touched. Jeanie was an angel in life as she is now in heaven watching over Carlton, Trey, Matt and Wesley. May God bless Carlton and the "boys" and help them to find solace in the knowledge that our beloved Jeanie is surely in heaven.
- Norman Massey, savanah, ga
My deepest condolence to the Knight and Matthews family. She was such a bright light with her smiles. Bobby Sandlin HVJ Class of 70.
- Bobby Sandlin, Savannah, GA
Our sincere condolences to the whole family. I know you will all miss her but she is still watching over all her boys. Larry & Lynn Palmer
- Larry & Lynn Palmer, Savannah, ga
My deepest heart-felt condolences are sent to the family. I first met Jeannie when we were children and my brother was in grade school with her. Our parents were good friends,as well
- Mary M.Kessler, Lawrenceville, Ga.
My sincere condolences to the family of Jeanie Matthews Knight. The Father of tender mercies and God of all comfort promises to "wipe out every tear from our eyes and death will be no more..." Revelation 21:3,4.
- Harris, Savannah, GA
Fifteen years ago, when I moved to Savannah to teach at St. Andrew’s, I sat in a parent conference with Jeanie - a woman who would become so much more than my friend and mentor. In that conference she inspired me by her fierce, intelligent mama bear instinct. I knew, in that moment, exactly how I wanted to be when I became a mother. Jeanie wrapped her enormous heart around me and never let go, treating me as one of her own. She welcomed us into her home and watched over us as we started our family, shedding tears with me when I found out I was having a little girl. I cherish every memory of our time together and have thought about her so often as we have moved around the country. Her love has left an indelible mark on my heart, that I will keep with me forever. I pray that you all find peace and comfort knowing that she will continue to be a guardian angel, watching over all of us!
- Jen, Jeff, Lucy and Ben Donahoe, San Antonio, TX,
Jeanie was a dedicated, intelligent, courageous woman and a wonderful teacher. It was a pleasure working with her at St. Andrew’s. I am sorry for your loss.
- Laura Pizzo, Savannah , GA
So very sorry for your loss. Many wonderful childhood memories with the Matthews family. Thoughts and prayers to family.
- Rhonda Hurn Lorenzen, Brinnon, WA
Jeanie was one of the first people I met when joining the St. Andrew's community. She welcomed me with open arms and so much kindness and guidance. She was a dear woman, and we are all better people for having known her. Sending prayers for Trey, Matthew, and Wesley.
- Scott Searcy, Savannah, GA
We were so deeply grieved to receive word of Jeanie's passing. Nearly 15 years ago our son Ken moved to Savannah and was immediately welcomed by many families, particularly the Knight Family. Jeanie always made sure Ken had a spot at their Holiday table having spent many Easter Sundays, Thanksgivings, various sporting events on TV or around town and even one Christmas when Ken was not able to make it back to Rhode Island. Oh and let's not forget St. Patrick Day parades! Jeanie made sure Ken was always part of the plans. We will always be forever grateful that she watched over and cared for the well being of our son. She was without a doubt his second Mom. Please know that our hearts are burdened with sadness and despite not having met Jeanie in person, we are confident that our heavenly meeting will be a joyous occasion. Our deepest sympathy to her husband and sons. Please know you are in our thoughts during this sorrowful time and the difficult days yet to come.
- David and Annette Tessier, North Smithfield, RI
In the words of Mother Teresa: “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” To a woman who cast ripples upon ripples, we will miss you on this earth. Your work here will be forever remembered by all those you lloved and touched, and you will live on in our memories forever. May those memories bring peace and comfort to Carlton and the boys, and to all who were touched by your atrength, faith, friendship and love. Marian and Lane Nelson
- Marian Nelson, Savannah, Georgia,
Please know that you are all in our prayers. Jeanie is one of the strongest women we have known and will surely be missed by many. Prayers that you will find peace and that the Lord will wrap his loving arms around you and bring you comfort.
- Russ and Norma Perry, Savannah , Ga
Our sincere and heartfelt condolences to the Knight family, may fond memories provide solace for your loss during these most difficult times. God has assured us that we will see our loved ones again “John 5:28,29”
- Sheila, , Ga
Jeanie ... Thank you so much for your absolutely wonderful mentoring & friendship at St. Andrew’s School & helping me to be a great room mother for Tim’s class of 2009 from 4K - 12th grade ... And for your wonderful dedication to the “First Come .., First Served “ Cookbook ...and for your Wordly Wise Card’s instructions !!! And I so enjoyed our SAS football practice Happy Hours over the phone my friend !!! Miss you & Love You Jeanie !!! ????
- Sue, Mike & Tim Svoboda, Savannah, GA ,
Carlton and the Boys We were so sadden to hear the news of Jeanie's passing. Our prayers will be with you all in the days ahead . The Lord has you in his hands .
- David and Jerina Boylston, Jacksonville, Fl
So sorry Carlton. I can only imagine how hard she fought. Wish I could be there. She will still watch over you and the boys.
- Fred Knight, Yuma, AZ
My condolences to the family I am sorry for your your loss but there is hope for mankind , our God Jehovah has promised mankind a resurrection so we can see our love again.please read John 5:28,29 this scripture will give you strength and hope. Again I am sorry for your your loss.
- Cooper, Savannah , Ga
Dear Carlton, Stelly, Walt & families, I am so sorry to hear of Jeanie's passing. My family & hers have been friends since 1960 and I cherish those early remembrances of Jeanie. Please know our prayers & condolences are with you at this time.
- Margaret Mitchell Costa , Jacksonville , Florida
Carlton sorry to hear of your loss prayers to you and your family.
- Larry Sims, Savannah, Ga
Carlton sorry to hear of your loss prayers to you and your family.
- Larry Sims, Savannah, Ga
Dear Carlton, Trey, Matt, and Wesley, I am so very sorry to hear about your loss. Jeanie was a very dedicated, caring, and loving woman, who worked tirelessly for all that she believed in. She loved her family and her community, and put that love into everything she did. Sending my prayers to your family. My family has you in our thoughts and are hoping that you all are doing okay.
- Caroline Verner, Savannah, GA
Our prayers and thoughts are w/ Carlton and his family, we have always admired their love for each other and their family, a true guiding light!
- Mark / sandy lovell, Savannah,
Our hearts are deeply saddened to hear of the loss of Jeanie! There has been no greater champion partner teacher for Children Inspiring Hope than Jeanie! She began, full heartedly, going above and beyond in bridging her students- hearts and minds- with those in Ghana. She enabled the first excursion to a waterfall for our leaders group! She sent a litany of well wishing cards to Vida, when she too battled cancer. The Ghana bracelets she wore were a continual reminder of the beauty of the bridge her creativity built on another continent. Her legacy will live on in the lives of those she touched, near and far, by what she instilled in them. We will forever remember her beauty, love, enthusiasm, and care for all of us. Rest in perfect peace! I hope your dancing with Vida in heaven and will guide us still! Love from the entire Children Inspiring Hope family!
- Amy Gaylor Nedriga, Savannah , Ga
Our heart felt condolences to you and Family.May the Lord Bless all and comfort all.Jeanie was a Beautiful person .She will never be forgotten.Great memories with Jeanie and the boys at My Play School.Love and prayers.Carolyn Moore
- Carolyn and Harris Moore Sr., Savannah, GA
Dear Carlton, Trey, Matt and Wesley and all, - I was so saddened to hear of the transition of Jeanie. What an angel she was on this earth- God must of needed her energy and love in heaven. I send a lot of love and hugs your way! Also that God holds you close and comforts you during this time of loss and in the future. I feel it was a priviledge to have called Jeanie my friend for many many years. Love- Dolores Pearson Barthelmess (Autry)
- Dolores Barthelmess, Ellijay, GA
Carlton and the entire Knight and Mathews family, we want to express our sincerest condolences having just learned of Jeanie's passing. Our prayer is that you will find strength, peace, and comfort in the days to come knowing that Jeanie is with our Lord God and suffering no more. She will forever be in your hearts and in your minds with loving memories of a life filled with good times. May God bless you all.
- Phil and Mary Rahal, Savannah, GA
Carlton and Family,. I am deeply sadden to hear of Jeanie's passing. I have fond memories of her growing up at Whitefield Methodist Church. May the Lord bless you, your boys and your entire family. In christian live, Frances Thomson Kennedy
- Frances Thomson Kennedy, Reidsville, GA
From the first day we met, I new Jeanie to be a beautiful person, who became a wonderful friend. Over the many years our families have shared joys and sorrows, special events and holiday meals, Jeanie became like a sister to me and Torrey, while gladly accepting the role of a second mother to our sons Will and Ty. I will remember her most for her positive "can do" attitude and her loving approach to everything she touched. Jeanie was an angel in life as she is now in heaven watching over Carlton, Trey, Matt and Wesley. May God bless Carlton and the "boys" and help them to find solace in the knowledge that our beloved Jeanie is surely in heaven.
- Norman Massey, savanah, ga
My deepest condolence to the Knight and Matthews family. She was such a bright light with her smiles. Bobby Sandlin HVJ Class of 70.
- Bobby Sandlin, Savannah, GA
Our sincere condolences to the whole family. I know you will all miss her but she is still watching over all her boys. Larry & Lynn Palmer
- Larry & Lynn Palmer, Savannah, ga
My deepest heart-felt condolences are sent to the family. I first met Jeannie when we were children and my brother was in grade school with her. Our parents were good friends,as well
- Mary M.Kessler, Lawrenceville, Ga.
My sincere condolences to the family of Jeanie Matthews Knight. The Father of tender mercies and God of all comfort promises to "wipe out every tear from our eyes and death will be no more..." Revelation 21:3,4.
- Harris, Savannah, GA
Fifteen years ago, when I moved to Savannah to teach at St. Andrew’s, I sat in a parent conference with Jeanie - a woman who would become so much more than my friend and mentor. In that conference she inspired me by her fierce, intelligent mama bear instinct. I knew, in that moment, exactly how I wanted to be when I became a mother. Jeanie wrapped her enormous heart around me and never let go, treating me as one of her own. She welcomed us into her home and watched over us as we started our family, shedding tears with me when I found out I was having a little girl. I cherish every memory of our time together and have thought about her so often as we have moved around the country. Her love has left an indelible mark on my heart, that I will keep with me forever. I pray that you all find peace and comfort knowing that she will continue to be a guardian angel, watching over all of us!
- Jen, Jeff, Lucy and Ben Donahoe, San Antonio, TX,
Jeanie was a dedicated, intelligent, courageous woman and a wonderful teacher. It was a pleasure working with her at St. Andrew’s. I am sorry for your loss.
- Laura Pizzo, Savannah , GA
So very sorry for your loss. Many wonderful childhood memories with the Matthews family. Thoughts and prayers to family.
- Rhonda Hurn Lorenzen, Brinnon, WA
Jeanie was one of the first people I met when joining the St. Andrew's community. She welcomed me with open arms and so much kindness and guidance. She was a dear woman, and we are all better people for having known her. Sending prayers for Trey, Matthew, and Wesley.
- Scott Searcy, Savannah, GA
We were so deeply grieved to receive word of Jeanie's passing. Nearly 15 years ago our son Ken moved to Savannah and was immediately welcomed by many families, particularly the Knight Family. Jeanie always made sure Ken had a spot at their Holiday table having spent many Easter Sundays, Thanksgivings, various sporting events on TV or around town and even one Christmas when Ken was not able to make it back to Rhode Island. Oh and let's not forget St. Patrick Day parades! Jeanie made sure Ken was always part of the plans. We will always be forever grateful that she watched over and cared for the well being of our son. She was without a doubt his second Mom. Please know that our hearts are burdened with sadness and despite not having met Jeanie in person, we are confident that our heavenly meeting will be a joyous occasion. Our deepest sympathy to her husband and sons. Please know you are in our thoughts during this sorrowful time and the difficult days yet to come.
- David and Annette Tessier, North Smithfield, RI
In the words of Mother Teresa: “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.” To a woman who cast ripples upon ripples, we will miss you on this earth. Your work here will be forever remembered by all those you lloved and touched, and you will live on in our memories forever. May those memories bring peace and comfort to Carlton and the boys, and to all who were touched by your atrength, faith, friendship and love. Marian and Lane Nelson
- Marian Nelson, Savannah, Georgia,
Please know that you are all in our prayers. Jeanie is one of the strongest women we have known and will surely be missed by many. Prayers that you will find peace and that the Lord will wrap his loving arms around you and bring you comfort.
- Russ and Norma Perry, Savannah , Ga
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
