Mrs. Dorothy D. McKnight's Obituary
Dorothy D. McKnight, age 79, passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on September 1, 2023. She was a woman of unwavering Christian faith and departed her earthly life fearlessly to enter into life eternal.
Dorothy was born December 19, 1943, at Florence Nightingale Hospital in Dallas, Texas to Edward and Gertrude Durning. Gregarious throughout her life, Dorothy had a joyful childhood, often recalling stories of family trips, summers at Interlochen Music Camp, or winning her high school class ping pong championship. Following graduation from Highland Park High School in 1961 she attended Texas Christian University where she was a Chi Omega and graduated with a degree in Education.
After being set up on a blind date by her college roommate, Dorothy married David McKnight on June 21, 1969, in Dallas, Texas. David and Dorothy lived for a few years in Stamford, Connecticut before returning to Dallas where she taught 4th grade for several years.
The greatest desire of her life was fulfilled on July 8, 1976, when she became a mother, welcoming daughter Martha Ann into the world. A son, Lewis David, followed in 1979. Dorothy dedicated her life to motherhood and embodied unconditional love for Martha and Lewis in all that they did. Often the first parent to volunteer or the most spirited fan in the stadium, Dorothy was there for it all.
In 2005 Dorothy began the next chapter when she became “Mimi” upon the birth of the first of five grandchildren. Mimi lived to participate in the big and small milestones of her grandchildren, always at the ready to offer encouragement or to celebrate (especially if it meant commenting on Facebook). She was so actively involved with her grandchildren that she became Mimi to many friends along the way.
Her love for the Lord was evident to all who knew her. She taught 5th grade Sunday School for over 30 years at Park Cities Baptist Church where she was an active member all her adult life. She sought to spread joy and delighted in the company of others, such as cherished times with her Friday night “Girls Gone Wild” dinner group. She could not be rushed and enjoyed serene moments sitting by a fire or waiting for a big fish to bite, especially at Ferndale Club.
She is preceded in death by her husband, David Lee McKnight, parents, Edward Hackett and Gertrude Russell Durning, brother Russell and sister-in-law Gene Durning, and nieces Rebecca and Eleanor Durning. She is survived by daughter Martha and husband Paul Kuykendall of Plano, son Lewis and wife Lizzy McKnight of Dallas, and GRANDchildren Andrew (18), Rachel (15), and Brandon (12) Kuykendall, and Emmeline (7) and Aubrie (5) McKnight.
The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the doctors, nurses and staff at Baylor Scott & White Plano and Anchor of Hope Hospice, particularly Kelly C., for their compassionate care.
Visitation will be held Monday, September 11 from 6:00 – 8:00 PM at Restland Funeral Home. A celebration of Dorothy’s life will be held at Park Cities Baptist Church on September 12 at 11:00 AM with a reception following. In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Samaritan’s Purse at samaritanspurse.org/give.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.
Matthew 6:33
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