04/13/2026
LTC (Ret) Linwood P. Knight, Jr., 86, of Kitty Hawk, NC, passed away peacefully on April 9, 2026.
Lin was raised in Portsmouth, Virginia, where he was active in sports and, in his early teens, discovered a lifelong love of golf. Following high school, Lin attended the Virginia Military Institute, beginning a distinguished 25-year career in the United States Army. He married his high school sweetheart, Beverley Spencer, and began his service at Fort Benning, Georgia, as an Infantry Officer. Together, they raised two daughters while his military career took them around the world, including assignments in Italy, Panama, Fort Benning, Fort Ord, and Fort Leavenworth. In addition, he served in Vietnam and Korea.
Lin served his country with pride and dedication, earning numerous honors, including the Purple Heart. After retiring from active duty, he continued his work in military consulting, where he took great pride in mentoring young officers and sharing his expertise in strategy and planning.
Throughout his life, Lin remained deeply passionate about golf. He played courses across the country and formed many lifelong friendships with those who shared his competitive spirit. He was actively involved in the Kansas Golf Association and was instrumental in expanding the Father/Son tournament format to include sons-in-law.
In later years, when he was no longer able to play, Lin found joy in sharing stories, memories, and laughter with family and friends. He was also a devoted fan of the Kansas Jayhawks and Kansas City Chiefs, a connection that grew from his time in Leavenworth, Kansas. Among his most cherished memories were the visits from his children and grandchildren to the Outer Banks.
Lin is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Beverley; his daughters, Betsy (Wyette) Spotts and Pamela Knight; and his grandchildren, Megan (Josh) K**k and Spencer Guidry. He is also survived by his brother, Richard (Kay) Keatley, and their daughters, Ann-Meg and Perry; his brother-in-law, C.B. Spencer; and his adored doodle, Gunnar.
In keeping with his wishes, no services will be held. To carry on Lin’s passion, contributions can be made to Folds of Honor (foldsofhonor.org) in his memory or to the Outer Banks Relief Foundation (obrf.org)
He played life with integrity and heart—and leaves behind a legacy well played.
Please share expressions of sympathy with the family at gallopfuneralservices.com. Gallop Funeral Services was entrusted with arrangements.
