Gary & Cathy McKnight
A Life Built on Love, Laughter, and Looking Out for Others
If you’re looking for two people who’ve spent their lives loving deeply and giving quietly, look no further than Gary and Cathy McKnight. Partners in life and heart, the McKnights have spent decades rooted in Washington County—raising a family, serving others, and building a legacy of kindness that will outlast them both.
Cathy grew up on a farm in Hardinsburg, surrounded by small-town values. Gary’s sister-in-law introduced them and that introduction sparked a relationship that has spanned decades and created a home filled with love, laughter, and faith.
Cathy spent her life caring for others—working in the nursing home, babysitting local children, and spending 23 years as a kindergarten assistant at Bradie Shrum. She and Gary raised two wonderful children, Nichole and Travis, and now delight in cheering on their grandchildren, whether it’s at a ballgame or during summer weekends on the lake with family and close friends. Cathy describes herself as “quiet, private, and blessed,” and those around her would agree—with a heart as big as her love for her family.
Gary took a more winding road through life—literally. He started his career in retail, then took to the highways as a truck driver, and owner/operator for 12 years and then became a Peterbilt salesman for 29 years. He has ridden through the lower 48 states and completed legendary motorcycle endurance rides like the “Iron Butt” and the “Bun Burner.” In retirement, he enjoys swimming and boating.
Both Gary and Cathy agree—what makes Washington County special is its people. That love of community is what led Gary to serve on the board of the Washington County Community Foundation, including time as its president. It’s also what inspired the McKnights to give back in a lasting way. Their fund was stared in honor of their grandson, Brayden, who at birth was born with a lower-limb difference. Shriners accepted him as a patient and care began at age one and will continue until he turns 18.
In gratitude, the McKnights established a charitable fund through the Foundation to help ensure other children with limb differences can receive prosthetics and the excellent medical care that Shriners gives—just like Brayden.
Their fund is a reflection of who they are—quiet givers, deeply rooted in faith, family, and compassion. When asked how they’d like to be remembered, Cathy says she hopes people will think of her as a loving wife, mom, and mamaw. Gary simply says, “A nice guy who helped people.”
Together, they are exactly that.
