John C. Knight

John C. Knight 75, of Bartow, passed away on May 12, 2018. Born in Bartow, Florida Johnny was survived by his beloved wife; Diane Knight, his son; Todd Knight (Lisa) of Lakeland, daughters; Shari Knight of Auburndale and Julie McDowell of Tampa, sisters; Glenda Brown (Bobby) and Bunk Green (Jack) of Pine Island, grandchildren; Cassidy Knight, Glenn Knight and Brendan Knight of Lakeland, Alan S. Kemp, Joshua Kemp and Jacob Kemp of Tampa, Great Grandchildren; Alan S. Kemp, Alisson Kemp also of Tampa. Former wife; Shirley Knight, many nieces nephews family and friends. Johnny worked in phosphate mining all his adult life, working for various phosphate companies over the years, eventually retiring from Mosaic.  He loved the unique landscapes out around the mines and collecting (and sharing with his grandchildren) shark’s teeth found in the mines.  Johnny loved life and experiencing many different hobbies – snow skiing, hunting, golf, but most of all fishing, continuing to visit the mines to fish as well as his favorite fishing spot, Lake Kissimmee.  He was adventurous and was able to travel to many places, both within the U.S. and other countries, but his favorite was Alaska.   Johnny loved football and was true to his teams, the Bucs and the Gators.  Johnny will be remembered by friends and family for many things, including his sense of humor and love for sharing stories of his life and childhood but mostly for his love for his family and especially his grandchildren, who were the loves of his life. Johnny touched the lives of many and will be dearly missed.