Elwood Harry Knight

Elwood “Woody” Knight, 94, of Nixa, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on March 9, 2026, surrounded by family and friends.

Woody was born on February 7, 1932, in Grand Rapids, Michigan to E.H. (Harry) and Hazel Knight. He grew up with a strong work ethic and a deep faith—values that remained with him throughout his life.

As a young man, Woody proudly served his country in the United States Air Force for four years. His time in the military was a point of pride and helped shape the disciplined, dependable man his family and friends came to know and love. He was honorably discharged in June of 1956 due to contracting polio.

Woody married the love of his life, Marcia on November 5, 1955. Together they built a life centered on family and raised four children. Woody worked hard throughout his life to provide for those he loved, always putting his family first. He proudly worked on the NASA Apollo program, working to put a man on the moon. He also worked negotiating many contracts around the world. In retirement, Woody loved his work as a volunteer mentor for SCORE (Senior Corps of Retired Executives) for over 35 years mentoring small business clients worldwide.

Woody found joy in being on the lake fishing, on the softball field or up in the woodshop making furniture. He was so proud to be a part of the Senior Olympics well into his 80's. More than anything, he was a man of deep faith. He was actively involved in church, always willing to serve and support others. Whether in his workshop or gathered with loved ones, he found his greatest happiness in spending time with family.

Woody is survived by his children, Brent (Sue) Knight, Brad (Goy) Knight, Brenda (Joe) Will, Beth (Eric) Melgren; grandchildren, Matt (Maygen) Knight, Tim Knight, Kellie (Matt) Williams, Jewel (Ted) Towle, Lindsey Will, Carter Will, Emily Melgren, Adam Melgren, Ben Melgren; great-grandchildren, Devyn Knight, Beckett Knight, Watson Williams, Hudson Williams, Jacob Towle, Mason Towle, Victoria Towle; and sister-in-law, Jan Reister.

Woody is preceded in death by both parents, beloved wife Marcia Knight, brother Al and wife Barb Knight, sister Barb and husband Larry Lane, sister-in-law Bonnie and husband Bob Buchow, sister-in-law Genese and husband Buz Snyder, and brother-in-law Carl Reister.

A visitation will be held from 9:30 a.m. To 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Nixa, Missouri. The funeral will follow at 10:30 with a lunch served before a private family burial at Missouri Veteran Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri.

The family would like to express a special thanks to those who gave such wonderful care; Kimberly from Cox Home Health, Stephanie from Veritas Home Health, and Pastor Jarod Koenig from Redeemer Lutheran Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Redeemer Lutheran Church, 911 Mt Vernon St, Nixa, MO 65714 and Access Hospice of the Ozarks 1910 E. Battlefield Road, Suite C, Springfield, MO 65804.

Arrangements are under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa, Missouri.