Ira Knight, Jr.

Ira "John" Knight Jr., 74, of Smethport, passed away Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at home from complications of ALS.

Born August 2, 1950, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Ira R. and Thelma (Case) Knight. He was a 1969 graduate of Smethport Area High School.

Ira was employed for 35 years as a mechanic supervisor at the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

He enjoyed camping, NASCAR, his Corvette and traveling throughout the country, especially their trips to Florida for the winter. One of his prized possessions was Bella, his dog.

Surviving is his wife Jan M. (Barnes) Knight of 41 years, one daughter, Jody (Chris) Clouser, of Oil City, four grandsons, Benjamin Horning, Martin Horning, Keith Horning, Cody Horning, six great grandchildren, and two nieces. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, and one son, Jonathan Michael Knight.

Family will receive friends on Friday June 27, 2025, from 4 pm to 7 pm in the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc. 372 East Main Street, where funeral services will be held on Saturday at 2:00 pm with Rev. Max Simms, Pastor of the Hilltop Baptist Church officiating. Burial will be in McKean Memorial Park.

Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to the McKean County Special Olympics, Camp JJ, or E.A.R.S. of Salamanca, NY.

Funeral arrangements are under the direction of the Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes Inc.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hollenbeckcahill.com

 

HOLLENBECK-CAHILL Funeral Home

33 South Avenue • Bradford, PA 16701

All Condolences -

Sending my condolences to Jan, and all of John''s loved ones. John was a great guy and could always make you laugh. I''m sure he is already greatly missed by many.
— Nicole Johnson

There''s a new hole in our lives but from it shines the memory of our good friend Jon. I''ve never known anyone who was quicker with a joke, more eager for an adventure, more ready to help, or more mellow in his approach to people. He taught me some things and I''m sure he didn''t know I was learning. I''ll always be grateful for his friendship and hold his advice in my heart. Thanks Jon! Love, Tom and Mary Ann
— Tom & Mary Ann Yoho

Jan-I can remember all the times I came up with the girls and while you were with Jane, I was with Jim and Ira….I will miss talking to him about the State, NASCAR, camping and the many places you guys went to. I will miss all that with him. You guys were great together and he will always be in all our memories. Most God filled sympathy and sincere condolences.
— Dave-Jane’s brother

Dear Jan and family. My heart is sad today in loss of a great friend. John (Curly) and I had many common interests. Mechanics, food, having fun and especially our shopping trips to the Walmart and Winn Dixie for groceries but nothing was more fun than going to the Goodwill and Kwainis stores to get any type of "bargain". Flee Market, yard sales and the tearing down of a house was always an adventure. I will miss my buddy and I am forever thankful to have known him but my memories of the good times will live on. RIP John, Love Eric
— Eric Kernohan

Jan, I know you and John enjoyed life to the fullest. May the memories you made together give you comfort during your grief. Also, condolences to Jodi and her family.
— Deborah Clouser

We''ve not only lost a former fellow employee and camping buddy, but we''ve lost a very true friend. Ira was always there when we needed advice or help or even just a good laugh. He will certainly be missed by many. We''ll see you in that campground in heaven, buddy! Our condolences to the family.
— Tim and Cherri Hayden

Condolences

  • Sending my condolences to Jan, and all of John''s loved ones. John was a great guy and could always make you laugh. I''m sure he is already greatly missed by many.

    — Nicole Johnson
  • There''s a new hole in our lives but from it shines the memory of our good friend Jon. I''ve never known anyone who was quicker with a joke, more eager for an adventure, more ready to help, or more mellow in his approach to people. He taught me some things and I''m sure he didn''t know I was learning. I''ll always be grateful for his friendship and hold his advice in my heart. Thanks Jon! Love, Tom and Mary Ann

    — Tom & Mary Ann Yoho
  • Jan-I can remember all the times I came up with the girls and while you were with Jane, I was with Jim and Ira….I will miss talking to him about the State, NASCAR, camping and the many places you guys went to. I will miss all that with him. You guys were great together and he will always be in all our memories. Most God filled sympathy and sincere condolences.

    — Dave-Jane’s brother
  • Dear Jan and family. My heart is sad today in loss of a great friend. John (Curly) and I had many common interests. Mechanics, food, having fun and especially our shopping trips to the Walmart and Winn Dixie for groceries but nothing was more fun than going to the Goodwill and Kwainis stores to get any type of "bargain". Flee Market, yard sales and the tearing down of a house was always an adventure. I will miss my buddy and I am forever thankful to have known him but my memories of the good times will live on. RIP John, Love Eric

    — Eric Kernohan
  • Jan, I know you and John enjoyed life to the fullest. May the memories you made together give you comfort during your grief. Also, condolences to Jodi and her family.

    — Deborah Clouser