Harriet Mildred Getzen Knight's Obituary
Harriet Knight died on January 13, 2020, at her home in Belleair Bluffs, FL. She was preceded in death by her husband Joseph Mitchell Knight, Jr., who died on April 15 of last year. She is survived by four children, Mitchell Hart Knight, Ann (Knight) Hammock, James Parrish Knight, Gayle (Knight) Colman, four grandchildren, a sister, Florence Boushall, a brother, Forrest Getzen and many nieces and nephews.
Harriet was born on January 19, 1931 in Stuart, Florida to Rachel Clonts Getzen and Thompson Hart Getzen. She also spent time growing up in St. Petersburg with her aunt and uncle, Zeta and Harry Parker.
She graduated from St. Petersburg High School in 1949. She attended Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia before transferring to the University of Florida in 1951 where she met her husband Joseph Mitchell Knight, Jr. She and Joe married on February 16, 1952 at the Fifth Avenue Baptist Church in St. Petersburg, Florida. Their 67-year marriage was filled with many adventures traveling, attending Florida Gator football games, playing and fishing on Indian Rocks Beach where they raised four children, and engaging lifelong friendships.
Harriet was a kind spirit who gave generously of her time and talent on numerous committees and initiatives at The Episcopal Church of the Ascension, serving in leadership roles for The Junior League of Clearwater, and as a committed member of the Colonial Dames and Daughters of the American Revolution.
Harriet designed and built their family homes, one in Belleair Bluffs where they enjoyed life until their passing and one in Orr’s Island, Maine where they spent cooler summer months on the coast.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2020 at 10:00am at The Episcopal Church of the Ascension in Clearwater. In lieu of flowers, the family requests you give donations to The Episcopal Church of the Ascension or the charity of your choice.
What’s your fondest memory of Harriet?
What’s a lesson you learned from Harriet?
Share a story where Harriet's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Harriet you’ll never forget.
How did Harriet make you smile?