Oletha Knight

Oletha Marilyn Knight (nee: Buckner), age 87, passed away peacefully March 20, 2024, in Grand Rapids, MI. Oletha was born November 3, 1936, in Omaha, Nebraska to Leona and William Buckner. She was their 14th child. Soon after William and Leona moved the family to Chicago where Oletha welcomed a sister, Linda. Oletha was no longer the baby of the family. Oletha was extremely proud of the largess of her family 14 siblings, as well as the legacy of her Grandfather, renowned Hall of Fame Rodeo Rider, Bill Pickett of the early 1900s. After graduating from Villa Marie High School in 1956, Oletha went to work for Michigan Bell Telephone, retiring after 20 years as an Operator Supervisor. With her husband, John they owned and operated Knight's Carry-Out for 13 years. After the closing of the store, Oletha went to work for Herman Miller, retiring after 10 years as Assembly Group Leader. With her infectious smile and generosity you could count on Oletha. She touched many people and made good and lasting friends easily. Oletha loved her visits to the Casinos, and there was a time or two she went home with a big smile. What also brought a smile to Oletha was her philanthropy to several missionary foundations. Oletha was preceded in death by her mother and father; 8 brothers; 5 sisters; and her husband, John Knight. She is survived by her sister, Laura Bell of Harvey, Illinois, as well as countless nephews and nieces. A Celebration Of Life will take place on will be Saturday, June 29, 2024, Georgetown Condominiums, Community House, 2436 Village Dr. S.E., Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Oletha Knight, please visit our flower store.