Barbara Martin Knight

Barbara Jeanette Martin Knight

September 21, 1938 - January 4, 2025

Barbara Jeanette Martin Knight, 86, of Wetumpka, Alabama, passed away peacefully at home on January 4, 2025. Born on September 21, 1938, in Wetumpka, she was the eldest of six children born to Jeanette Pickard and Neil Robbins Martin.

As the oldest sibling, Barbara set an inspiring example for her sisters and brother, pioneering many firsts in the Martin family, including attending elementary school, high school, and college.

Barbara faced profound loss at a young age when her mother and infant sister tragically passed away during her eighth-grade year. In the aftermath, Barbara took on a central role in helping her father and siblings manage their daily lives, displaying strength and selflessness far beyond her years.

After graduating from Wetumpka High School in 1956, Barbara attended Alabama College in Montevallo, Alabama. Despite her academic commitments there, she often returned home on weekends to support her family. Upon completing her degree, she began her teaching career in Montgomery, Alabama, teaching first grade at Flowers Elementary all while continuing to assist her father and younger siblings. Once her siblings left for college, Barbara remained in Wetumpka to live with her father and taught first grade at Hohenberg Memorial Elementary School, where she devoted 37 years to nurturing and educating young minds.

In retirement, Barbara became acquainted with Hilton Knight, a childhood classmate from grammar school. They married on February 14, 2005, and shared 20 happy years filled with love and mutual devotion. They especially cherished their beach vacations, which provided many treasured memories. For Barbara’s 81st birthday they traveled across the country to Yellowstone and Grand Tetons National Parks, a trip of a lifetime.

Barbara’s life was a testament to generosity, love, and community. She was a source of unwavering support to her family, whether assisting her father on the farm, helping Hilton market his nursery plant business, or serving as a beloved “grandmother” figure to her nieces and nephews. Family gatherings during Christmas and summer vacations with “Barbara and Pop” became cherished family traditions.

Her faith was a cornerstone of her life. As a devoted church member, Barbara taught children’s Sunday School for more than 50 years. Even in her later years, when physical attendance became difficult, her faith remained steadfast, providing spiritual comfort in her final days. Barbara’s loving spirit, unwavering faith, and lifelong dedication to her family and community will never be forgotten.

She is survived by her husband, Hilton Knight of Wetumpka, AL; three sisters, Rebecca (James) Harchanko of Huntsville, AL, Lela Melton of Black Mountain, NC, and Ruth (Bert) Curtis of Troy, AL; her brother, Neil “Rob” (Betty) Martin of Auburn, AL; plus many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her mother, Jeanette P. Martin; father, Neil R. Martin, Sr.; and infant sister, Alice Lee Martin.

Friends are invited to pay their respects on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm at First Methodist Church of Wetumpka. A service celebrating Barbara’s life will follow at 1:00 pm, officiated by Rev. Matt Albritton and Rev. Ken Blackwood. Interment will take place at Wetumpka City Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will be Barbara’s nephews.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to First Methodist Church of Wetumpka, Ivy Creek Hospice, or the John Martin Thornton Memorial Scholarship.

Arrangements are being handled by Martin Funeral Home. Online condolences may be shared on the guest registry at www.martinfuneralhomeinc.com <http://www.martinfuneralhomeinc.com>.