Mrs. Betty Jean McKnight

Funeral services for Mrs. Betty McKnight, 86, of Carthage, Texas will be 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Hawthorn Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dennis Landtroop officiating. Burial will follow in McKnight Cemetery, Cushing, Texas, under the direction of Hawthorn Funeral Home. Visitation will be 10-11:00 a.m. Saturday prior to the service. Mrs. Betty Jean McIntosh McKnight was born November 3, 1938, in Upshur County to Buford and Eva Gladys McIntosh. She was a faithful member of the Sanctuary of Pentecost. On July 3, 1954, Betty married the love of her life, Mr. Wayne McKnight. Together, they built a beautiful life and a marriage that reflected the true meaning of love and devotion. Their lives were blessed with children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandson. Their love story remains a cherished example to all who knew them. Mrs. McKnight passed away on September 18th, 2025, surrounded by the people she loved the most. Mrs. Betty McKnight was a woman whose life was defined by love, selflessness, and grace. Betty pursued her education at Panola College and went on to work for First National Bank. Of all her accomplishments, however, her greatest joy and purpose came from caring for her beloved son, Allen McKnight. She devoted her life to him with unwavering love, never once complaining, and always carrying the biggest, most beautiful smile on her face. Her strength, cheerful spirit, and nurturing heart were a testament to the depth of her love and the true meaning of sacrifice and motherhood. Betty had a gift for bringing people together. She was known as the best cook, she enjoyed preparing meals and hosting cherished family gatherings. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her kitchen. Beyond her love of cooking, she enjoyed bowling, playing bingo, and, most of all, spending time with her family. Spoiling her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and her great-great grandson brought her immeasurable joy, and her presence will forever be treasured in their hearts. She was preceded in death by her parents; her infant sister, Bobbie McIntosh; her loving husband Wayne McKnight; and her daughter-in-law, Marianna McKnight. Left to honor her me mory are her children: Cynthia McKnight, Allen McKnight, and Danny McKnight, all of Carthage. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Anita Ebarb of Carthage, Brandon Ishee of Carthage, Stephanie Taylor and husband Ty of Shelbyville, Lisa Aleman and husband Jeremy of Houston, and David McKnight of Carthage. Her great-grandchildren include James Ebarb, Dillon Ebarb, Maycie Ishee, and Jett Ishee, all of Carthage, as well as Daniel, Tanner, Madison, and MacKenzie Taylor of Shelbyville. Betty also leaves behind her sisters, Joan Plunkett and husband Vick of Carthage, and Jaunell Howard and husband Curtis of Tarkington, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who loved her dearly. Betty McKnight’s legacy is one of love, sacrifice, and faithfulness. She will be remembered as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. A woman whose kindness, generosity, and smile touched every life she encountered.

Tributes

Mrs. Betty Jean McKnight

November 3, 1938 - September 18, 2025