John W. Knight, Jr.

John William Knight, Jr., 86, of Philadelphia, PA passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2020, at his residence.  John was the son of the late Elizabeth and John W. Knight, Sr.

A life-long Philadelphia native, John attended the Philadelphia public schools and was a graduate of Bartram High School.

John served two years in the United States Army until he was honorably discharged on May 24, 1962.  While in the service John began to cultivate his athletic talents and subsequently excelled in boxing. John’s boxing career awards include: boxing champion of the Police Athletic League 1952-53-54; AAU 175LB. Champion 1953, National AAU Runner – UP 1955 and United States Army, Europe Light Heavy Weight Champion 1957.

After returning to civilian life John worked in the United States Postal Service for several years as a mail carrier in the city of Philadelphia. He later joined the police force where he was employed as a Philadelphia City Police Officer until he retired after 30 years of service.

John was a member of the Tasker Street Baptist Church, Philadelphia. He also attended Enon Baptist Church in Philadelphia. John was known to be a man of good character and was a very generous person. He participated in the Annual Broad Street Run and frequently spent time eating at Father Divine’s restaurant.

His hobbies included listening to jazz, watching movies, watching and attending pro boxing matches, and spending time with his Coatesville family.

John leaves a legacy of cherished memories to his sister: Wanda Middleton (husband, Tom) of Coatesville, niece, Kisha Middleton of Baltimore MD., nephew, Eric Charles Knight, Sr. (deceased); great-nephews, Eric Charles Knight, Jr., Gordon Styer; great-great-nephew, Eric Charles Knight, III; God sisters, Joyce Gandy of Malvern, Flo Smallwood of Philadelphia; childhood friend, John Flamer of NJ and many other relatives and friends.

A Graveside Service with military honors will be held 11AM, Tuesday, June 30, 2020 at New Evergreen Cemetery in Coatesville.

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