A resident of Chatham, Jean Knight passed away at the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance – Chatham Campus on April 12, 2026 at the age of 81.
Born in Tillsonburg, Jean was the daughter of the late Alexander and Delia (née McCallum) Young.
Beloved wife of 59 years to Tom Knight.
Loving mother to David Knight and Margaret (David) Gough.
Missed by her daughter-in-law Tanya Harris.
Grandma to Alex, Lauren, Keira, and Gavin.
Missed by her German Shephard, Willow.
She will be missed by extended family and friends.
Jean graduated from London Teacher’s College in 1964 and was a lifelong teacher and advocate for children with learning disabilities, she was a tutor extraordinaire. Jean could be found doing all sorts of things; crocheting, knitting, quilting, sewing, and embroidery. She always enjoyed giving handmade gifts, no matter the occasion. Jean had a memorable sense of humour and was always willing to lend a hand to those in need.
She loved her family and always found a way to have fun together, whether that was day trips or going to the campground in Petrolia with her grandchildren. Jean had an adventurous soul, traveling the East and West Coasts with her husband, Tom. Jean had a close connection to her faith and attended church for 25 years.
Family to receive friends at the funeral home, 459 St. Clair Street, Chatham on Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 2:00pm – 4:00pm and 6:00pm – 8:00pm. A Memorial Service will be held at Holy Trinity/St. Paul’s Anglican Church, 81 Selkirk Street, Chatham on Friday, April 24, 2026 at 11:00am. As per Jean’s wishes, cremation has taken place.
Donations made in memory of Jean to FreeHelpCK or to Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind would be appreciated by the family.
Online condolences may be left at www.mckinlayfuneralhome.com
