Mrs. Mary Francis Knight
Mrs. Mary Knight Obituary
Mary Francis Knight of Tampa, FL, passed away on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Memorial Chapel, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606, with Reverend Dr. Florence Parra, Officiating.
Mary Francis Knight was born on March 7, 1936, in Unadilla, Georgia, to George and Annie Wise. For 90 years, Mary lived a life defined by unwavering faith, devotion to family, compassionate service, and steadfast love for others.
For fifty years, Mary served with dedication and integrity at Dixie Linen/Aramark Uniform Company, earning the respect, admiration, and friendship of colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is reunited in rest with her parents; her beloved daughter, Martha; and her siblings, J.W. Wise, James Wise (Etta), Willie B. Wise, Jimmy Wise, and Georgia Mae Williams.
She leaves behind a legacy of love and treasured memories to be carried forward by her surviving siblings: Carrie Smith of Moore Haven, FL; Trudie Reid of Tampa, FL; George Wise Jr. (Gwen) of Snellville, GA; and Tommie Wise of Unadilla, GA.
She is also lovingly remembered by: her children, Ollie Mae Sharpe, Thomas Knight Jr. (Brenda) of Fayetteville, NC, Mary Knight Jr., and Annie Jean Knight; her grandchildren, Katina Fleming (Darryl), Camica Dickerson, Lakisha Sharpe, Precious Knight (Erica) of Fort Hood, TX, Shaquanda Wilson, Brandon Knight of Fayetteville, NC, Breandra Knight of Fayetteville, NC, and Shaquae White.
Mary's enduring legacy continues through her three generations of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and dear friends whose lives were enriched by her presence. Mary found her greatest joy in spending time with family, sharing words of encouragement and wisdom, and inspiring younger generations to live purposeful and meaningful lives.
Visitation will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Ray Williams Funeral Home, 301 N. Howard Avenue, Tampa, FL 33606.
Arrangements entrusted to Ray Williams Funeral Home, Rhodes & Northern, Owners
www.raywilliamsfuneralhome.com
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