Kyong Sun Knight (nee Choe) died too soon but passed peacefully on May 28, 2026, at the age of 79. She was born in South Korea on April 4, 1947, and came to the United States in 1975 with little English but a lot of hope.
Some knew her as Kyong and others knew her as Sandy, but all knew her as a loving and generous person who never let you go hungry and never let you go without a hug. Kyong became a single parent in the 1980s but she faced this hardship with an unwavering work ethic, immeasurable fortitude, and a compassionate heart. She worked as a dishwasher and later as a machine operator at a factory.
In the 1990s, Kyong married Robert Knight and was blessed with two bonus sons. Her grandchildren were the highlight of her life. She enjoyed doting on them as well as gardening. She will be missed more than words can describe.
Kyong was preceded in death by her husband of more than 30 years, Robert Knight.
Kyong is survived by her family: Chi-yong Throckmartin,Graham Smith and Lila Smith of O’Fallon, IL; David Smith of Shiloh, IL; Keith (Kristie) Knight, Morgan Knight, and
Kendall Knight (Ashton Williams) of Paris, IL; Robbie (Bobbi) Knight, Amanda Knight, and Ethan Bowden of Springfield, IL; and Myong Hui (Bill) Lovelace of Colbert, OK, and her dogs, Charlie and Baby Lou.
Memorials can be made in her honor to the Alzheimer’s Association (https://www.alz.org/get-involved-now/donate), or the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (https://alzfdn.org/donate). Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.schildknechtfh.com.
A private celebration of life will take place with family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home.
