Jean E. (Larson) Knight, 104

January 15, 1916 – May 3, 2020

GLOUCESTER, MA – Jean Elizabeth (Larson) Knight passed away peacefully at Brookside Nursing Home in Stone Mountain, Georgia, on Sunday, May 3, 2020. A bonafide centenarian plus at 104 years, she was born in the Lanesville Village section of Gloucester on January 15, 1916 to Agnes (Davis) and Harry Larson. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Ralph H. Knight, the son of George & Britta (Cole) Knight, in 2002. (Jean and Ralph were wed on May 8, 1937, after eloping to New York City.)

Jean received her academic education in the public schools and graduated with distinction with the Gloucester High School Class of 1933. Pursuing the Commercial Course, she received various awards and certificates and was a member of the Junior Business Club and Service Club. She attained the designation of Perfect Attendance during her Senior year. As an adult, she was accorded an Associate’s Degree at North Shore Community College.

She was the proud mother of two sons, Ralph E. Knight (wife Ann) of Lilburn, Georgia and Richard N. Knight (wife Jane) of Rockport, MA. Jean was the   cherished sister of the late Ethel Dutton (husband George) of Gloucester.

Jean was employed at one time as an Executive Secretary at Gorton’s of Gloucester. She also served in diverse capacities during her tenure at National Marine Fisheries on Emerson Avenue, Gloucester. She helped, in addition, at the city polls during election seasons.

Highlights of her myriad interests included: domestic/international travel (Portugal was one of many favorites), square dancing with partner Ralph, creating artistic portraits and floral renderings in oils & pastels, cribbage, multi-piece puzzles, making merry with the piano or organ, and reveling in time spent at the Gloucester Senior Center. A scrabble player extraordinaire, Jean always won over her word game opponents while attending monthly Senior Socials, in her late 90s of age, at the Lanesville Community Center. The devoted couple took part in several of Ralph’s WW II Navy Reunions (ship Newcomb DD 586) at varying locales.  Jean’s 100th birthday gala included vintage music, elegant confections, and memorable camaraderie with family and friends at her charming home in Riverdale.  Proclamations/citations were presented from the City of Gloucester and the Massachusetts House of Representatives.

An enchanting hostess and role model for the younger generation, Jean took immense joy in her family and friends. House-party celebrations generally included sparkling piano, accordion, and organ “recitals” with her sister Ethel. Delectable refreshments and lovely table settings were visual treats. A kind, lucid, gregarious spirit, she had a delightful aura and flair for lovely fashion, coiffures, jewelry, and other objects of beauty.

Jean is also survived by: niece Toby Dechene (husband Ron), Kim Dutton, Terry Dutton (wife Jean), as well as several great nieces and great nephews. Additionally, living on beyond her are grandchildren: Michael Knight (wife Lisa) of Valdosta, GA (great-grandchildren Sidney, Tyler); Mark Knight (wife Molly) of Augusta, GA (great grandchildren Noah, Mary Jane, Olivia); Jennifer Trowsdale (husband Josh) of Lawrenceville, GA (great-granddaughters Emma, Evelyn); Jason Knight (wife Kerry) of Monroe, WA (great-granddaughter Kaia); Amy Knight of Gloucester, MA (great-grandson Cameron).

Jean Knight has fulfilled her earthly destiny. She added cheer and color to countless lives and will be dearly missed. Interment of cremains will take place privately at Seaside Cemetery, Lanesville.  If one wishes to honor and memorialize Jean Larson Knight, please sprinkle some acts of kindness among individuals in need or remember a favorite charity.