Gary Lee McKnight

Gary Lee McKnight was born January 2, 1942, in McAlester, Oklahoma, and died December 19, 2025. A lifelong resident of McAlester, Gary lived a life marked by independence, curiosity, and a deep commitment to his family and friends.

Gary graduated from McAlester High School in 1959 and went on to attend the University of Oklahoma, where he earned an engineering degree in 1964. He later received his law degree from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in 1966. After serving two years as a First Lieutenant in the United States Army, Gary returned to McAlester and began his legal career, including service as an Assistant District Attorney.

In 1970, Gary launched his real estate ventures with McKnight Realty and opened his own law practice, where he practiced for more than 50 years. His practice focused on estate planning, real estate, probate, and energy law. Possessing a strong entrepreneurial spirit, Gary invested in a wide range of ventures—both his own and those supporting his friends. He developed several neighborhoods in McAlester, with his favorite project being Spinnaker Point on Lake Eufaula.

Gary valued friendship, honesty, and integrity above all else. He was known as a loyal and dependable friend, generous with both his time and resources, and always willing to help others without expectation of recognition or return. His generosity was quiet and sincere, rooted in genuine concern for those around him.

Outside of his professional life, Gary was an adventurer at heart. For many years, he kept a BMW motorcycle in Germany, returning often to ride. He traveled the world on his Harley-Davidson with a close group of friends, riding through destinations including Cuba, Australia, Costa Rica, and Bhutan. Gary was also an accomplished sailor who raised his children sailing on Lake Eufaula and later sailed extensively with family and friends around the world. For many years, he kept a sailboat in the British Virgin Islands, where he taught many of his friends to sail.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis and Lula McKnight of McAlester, Oklahoma, and his former wife, Lou McKnight. He is survived by his daughter, Jennifer McKnight of Fort Worth, and granddaughter, Katey Lou; his son, Scott McKnight of Fort Worth; his wife, Allison; and grandchildren Drew, Will, Catherine, and Claire.

Gary will be remembered for his integrity, loyalty, generosity, and humor, and for a life lived with purpose, independence, and quiet kindness.

A Celebration of Life will be held January 3 at 3:30 p.m. at the McAlester Country Club; casual attire, and all who knew Gary are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial contributions be made to the Boys & Girls Club-McAlester Home: Boys & Girls Club of McAlester