Robert Bennett Knight, affectionately known as 'Benny', beloved husband, father, Granddad, brother, and friend, passed away on July 7, 2025, at the age of 81. Born in Port Arthur, Texas on June 13, 1944, to MT and Velma Knight, Benny lived a life marked by faith, service, and a deep love for his family and country.

A graduate of Thomas Jefferson High School, class of 1962, Benny was an all-district baseball player whose love for the game lasted his entire life. Benny proudly answered the call to serve his country. He joined the Army National Guard, becoming a paratrooper at Fort Bragg and later serving as a military police officer. He dedicated six years to military service with honor and commitment. Benny earned a degree in Economics from the University of Houston in 1970.

Benny's professional life was as dynamic as his personality. He worked in sales, landscaping, and most notably, as a devoted pastor. His faith and passion for mission work led him to South Africa, where he shared the love of Christ and built lasting relationships through service and compassion. Many friends locally will remember him as their Sunday school teacher or youth leader at Grace Church of the Nazarene, Great Hills Baptist Church and Austin Baptist Church. Inspiring others with his wisdom, humility, and heart for the Gospel was his passion.

He married his high school sweetheart, Karen, in 1964; a love story that spanned over six decades and was a testament to enduring commitment. Together, they raised three children: Jan (Joe Ebersol), Greg (Jennifer Knight), and Kristin (Tony Haden). Along with this, Benny is the proud grandparent to nine grandkids known as the Kool Kats: Grant, Marisa (Bryce), Brett (Elena), Kadin, Taya, Megan, Avery, Madi, and Aliya and 1 precious newborn great grandbaby Brooks Caleb.  Benny was blessed with a large family,  his siblings Tom Knight (Inez Knight), Gary Knight  (Barbara Knight) and Karen Franklin (Johnnie Franklin) as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.

Benny had a gift for making memories—whether it was through family vacations, coaching youth baseball, or simply spending time fishing and watching college sports. He loved watching black-and-white westerns, happily rewatching the same episodes countless times. A natural prankster, Benny had a playful spirit, and teasing was one of his specialties. Above all, he found his greatest joy in spoiling his grandchildren. He was their biggest fan, never missing their many activities, and proudly passing down his love of sports, storytelling, and faith.

His legacy is one of strength, kindness, and unwavering faith. A life well-lived and deeply loved.

A memorial service honoring Benny's life will be held on Sunday, July 13th at 2:30pm, Austin Baptist Church.  7016 Ribelin Ranch Dr.  Austin, TX 78750.