James C. Knight, known to most as Jug, age 93, of Russellville passed away peacefully, Tuesday, February 9, 2021.  James was born in London on February 8, 1928.  He was married to Johna Dell Knight for 70 years.  James was a devoted husband and dedicated father.  He treasured his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  He was especially fond of his role as "Pop".

James graduated from London High School in 1946, where he played basketball for the London Hornets; he had an indefensible left hook shot.  James proudly served his country as a member of the United States Marine Corp before coming home to serve for 17 years in Arkansas National Guard.  He was proud of the fact he helped recruit many Pope County residents to serve their country.

James (along with his wife, Johna) founded Russellville Real Estate in 1963.  As Principal Broker he oversaw many agents and especially enjoyed the friendships that evolved during this time.  He served on the Russellville Board of Realtors, Board Member of the Russellville Chamber of Commerce, Chairman of the Russellville Planning and Zoning Commission and the Price Cemetery Board.  James was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Russellville.

James was preceded in death by his wife, Johna Dell Knight; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Knight; two sisters, Rheba Decker (Henry) and Allene Dye (J.B.); and a brother, Virgil Knight (Frieda).

Survivors include a daughter and two sons, Debbie and Jess Eubanks, Terri and Jim Knight, and Shelley and John Knight, all of Russellville; seven grandchildren, Jessica and Tatum Owenby, Sarah and Nick Simco, all of Springdale, Kalie and Chance Wright of Tulsa, Oklahoma, Atalie and Eric Sessions of Little Rock, Tyler Knight of Jackson, Wyoming, Hannah Grace and Rob Branscum of Little Rock and Riley Knight of Russellville; 11 great-grandchildren; and many adored nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service for the family will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2021, at Price Cemetery officiated by Dr. Stephen P. Davis and under the direction of Shinn Funeral Service of Russellville.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Building Fund, 200 S. Denver Ave., Russellville, Arkansas 72801, the American Cancer Society, online at https://www.cancer.org/involved/donate/memorial-giving.html or in care of Judy Murphy, 126 Lakeview Circle, Russellville, Arkansas 72802, or Arkansas Hospice, 2405 East Parkway, Suite 3, Russellville, Arkansas 72802.

The online obituary and guestbook are available at www.shinnfuneral.com.