Gerald Knight

Gerald “Jerry” Lyle Knight, known by many nicknames “Big Jerry” and “Moose” passed away on August 20, 2025, in his beloved Avon, Montana, at the age of 70. Born on June 22, 1955, in St. Joseph Hospital, Deer Lodge, Jerry was the son of Bud and Bonnie Knight.

From an early age, Jerry’s imposing presence was matched only by his big heart. He gave up a promising football opportunity after graduating high school in 1973 to help on the family’s Avon ranch, marking the beginning of a lifetime devoted to both the land and hard work. His mining career started immediately at Cominco Phosphate Mine, where he remained steadfast until its closure in 1999. In partnership with his brother Don, Jerry purchased a ranch in Powderville MT in 1992, a point of deep pride. He loved Powderville, and the friends and neighbors who would always lend a hand. He built strong relationships there and Avon. Jerry lived a life enjoying people, talking with them, and most would consider a friend. You can travel from one end of Montana to the other, say “Jerry Knight” and someone new him and had a great story to tell.

Jerry cherished his family above all. He married his high school sweetheart, Sena, in 1975, and they welcomed their daughter Nicole “Cole” in 1980. Though their paths eventually diverged, Jerry then met Twyla Jackson in 1994, and together they welcomed twin sons, Zeb and Tate, in 1998.

Known for his hard work and common sense, Jerry was both intimidating and beloved-feared by some but loved by all. He drew people in, whether he was swapping stories at a local Montana bar or working cattle at the ranch. Jerry thrived in the mountains, tracking elk, riding dirt bikes, snowmobiling or checking on cows. Even in retirement after serving as a Lead Forman underground at Stillwater’s East Boulder Mine, he loved being a mentor to his sons who took on the great responsibility of the ranch.

Jerry is survived by his wife, Twyla Knight, his children, Nicole Ashby (Taylor), Zeb Knight (Cheyanne), Tate Knight (Trinity); his grandchildren, Juna Ashby, Temple Ashby; his greatgrandchild, Augustus May Ashby; his siblings, Susan Knight, Marilynn Knight- Pennington, and Don Knight (Lynn); and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.

A memorial service to celebrate Jerry’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on August 28, 2025, at the Avon Clubhouse, with stories and lunch to follow. All are welcome to share memories and honor a great man who left an indelible mark on those who knew him.

In lieu of flowers the family requests a donation given to Avon Community Center and Fire Department or Broadus MT Volunteer Fire Department Powder River County.