Anne Davis McKnight

YADKINVILLE – Anne Davis McKnight 92, peacefully passed away on January 19, 2021. Mrs. McKnight was born March 23, 1928, in Forbush, NC to the late Houston Thomas Davis and Daisy Shermer Davis. She received a Bachelor of Music in Piano at Woman’s College (University of NC-Greensboro). After graduating she returned to her home in the Forbush community. There she led the choir at Forbush Baptist Church for one year and began teaching piano at Yadkinville High School. In 1950, she was crowned the Centennial Queen of Yadkin County. In June of 1951, she married John Lewis McKnight, Sr. and resided in Yadkinville. She began to lead the choir upon coming to Yadkinville Baptist Church. She served as Director of Music for 42 years. Mrs. McKnight also taught piano for 63 years and was a member of the NC Music Teacher’s Association. She prepared numerous students to participate throughout NC in piano competitions. Several of Mrs. McKnight’s students went on to major in music. She loved getting to know her students and helped them find opportunities in which to use their musical talents. Mrs. McKnight is survived by two children, Susan McKnight Welch (David) of Lexington, SC and John Lewis McKnight, Jr. (Heidi) of Mint Hill, NC; five grandchildren, Dave Welch (Kim), John Welch (Emily), Michael Welch, Rheanna Burton (Michael), Laney McKnight (fiancée Drew Agans) and two step grandchildren, Heather Gregoire and Blake Kirven; two great grandchildren, and one step great granddaughter. Anne will lie in-state from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday January 22 and Saturday January 23 at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville. A private burial service will be held with family only. In lieu of flowers the family suggest that memorials be made to: First Baptist Church of Yadkinville, P.O. Box 668, Yadkinville, NC 27055. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the McKnight family. Online condolences can be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com.