Timothy Knight, 72, of Mount Carmel, Illinois, passed away Friday, June 12, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on May 22, 1954, in Evansville, Indiana, the son of Robert “Red” Knight, and Margarette “June” (Burkes) Knight. He married Jackie Davis on April 8, 1977, and together they celebrated forty-nine years of marriage.
Tim was a proud 1972 graduate of Central High School. He was a loving husband, father and papa. He never met a stranger. He was an avid drummer in many bands over his long career, playing with Time Elapse, Freedom Railroad, Crystal Sounds, Family Tradition with Dink Richardson, Chlores Worlow and the Country Troubadours, Styl Country, Pete and the Country Boys, Star Bound, Gary Dawson Band, and he also sat in with Charlie Daniels Band, REO Speedwagon, Fats Domino and Little Jimmy Dickens. A quote from his grandson, “Papa was the best drummer out there!”.
Tim celebrated his 72nd birthday doing what he loved with family and friends, at a baseball game, thanks to the Evansville Otters for throwing him a party. He even got to throw out the first pitch to his grandson. He wouldn’t have been able to make this game had it not been for a great friend, Amy Phillips, bringing her family’s wheelchair van over to pick him up and bring him home. Up until his illness, he hadn’t missed a home game at Bosse Field in fifteen years. His impact within the organization was well known as his life was celebrated with a moment of silence in front of almost 8,000 fans this weekend. Tim also enjoyed his time at WVC volleyball and basketball games, where he had a special seat by the door. All the amazing athletes giving him fist pumps was the highlight of his day.
The family would like to thank a few great medical staff members for the care Tim received recently. Alicia Kinsolving and office staff for all the years of service to him. Dr. Justin Thorpe at WGH ER for the swift care he received and his compassion. WGH ambulance and volunteer firemen are very much appreciated for their dedication in helping over the past few months. Tim had one very special nurse at IU Methodist, Cara Petrucci. She brightened his day every time she was his nurse, and she was his, and the family’s biggest advocate in the field.
Tim leaves behind his beloved wife, Jackie; daughter, Crystal Healy; grandson, William “Bubby” Healy; granddaughter, Clarissa “Sissy” Healy; bonus daughter, Chloe (Sabatier) Lephant from France; special brother-in-law, Charles Davis who helped care for him.
Tim was preceded in death by his parents.
In keeping with Tim’s wishes, a private family burial will take place at Highland Memorial Cemetery, where he will be laid to rest next to his mother and father wearing a special Otters #66 jersey signed by all the current players, a player’s hat, and a baseball. He will also have an Otter beaded keychain that Clarissa made for him.
Keepes Funeral Home is serving the family with the arrangements. To view Tim’s tribute wall, and leave condolences for the Knight family, please visit www.keepesfuneralhome.com
