Rankin621web

READER
SPOTLIGHT
Billy
KNIGHT
Why did you decide to make Rankin County
your home?
I’ve been a Mississippian my entire life living and
having worked in Coahoma, Hinds, Madison, and
Rankin Counties. Rankin County drew me with it’s
friendly citizenry, excellent schools, close proximity
to healthcare, and outstanding public servicemen
and women. Rankin County is home.
How long have you lived in Rankin County?
I have called Rankin County home since June 2008.
It is hard to believe that 13 years have gone by so fast,
but it has been exciting to see the growth that has
occurred.
Tell us about your family.
I’ve been married to my best friend, Elizabeth
Knight, for almost 17 years. She is a wonderful wife,
mother and teacher. She has served faithfully for 15
years in one of Rankin County’s public high schools.
Her commitment encourages me to be a better
teacher and person. We have two children, Carter,
age 12 and Colesie-Anne, age 7. Carter is an amazing
reader and loves to be helpful. He enjoys piano,
fishing, Scouts, and video games. Colesie-Anne
loves all animals and is ready for any kind of craft at
the drop of a hat. She is as smart as her brother and
has no problem getting her hands dirty. Second to
my Savior and Lord, Jesus, my family is the most
important to me.
What are three things on your bucket list?
I would love to visit all the major national parks,
learn to play the piano, and tour Jerusalem.
What is your favorite memory of living in
Rankin County?
My favorite season of the year is winter. I like the
cold. The colder and icier the better. This past
winter my kids and I had a blast in the snow and ice
that got dumped on central Mississippi. I know
many lost power and had property damage, but we
wanted to make the best of a bad situation. We
played and played and played. I hope my children
will never forget the memories made.
Where are your three favorite places to eat
in Rankin County?
When we eat out it is so hard to choose. One,
because we are so hungry and two, there are so many
places to choose from. Our all-time favorite is
Fernando’s. The food and service are always top
notch. Two others that are always a treat and never
disappoint are Cerami’s and Osaka.
What are some fun things to do in Rankin
County on the weekends?
My kids and I love fishing and taking the canoe out
on our subdivision’s pond. Also, biking on one of the
many trails is as entertaining as it is good exercise. I
know that in the Flowood area there are miles and
miles of trails. The many parks in the county offer a
great place to walk and play.
Share some things you enjoy doing in your
spare time.
I like to spend time with my family as mentioned
above, I enjoy playing the guitar and teaching music
to others. I have a great time at my local range, Two
Gun Tactical, working on my shooting skills. I help
with my son and daughter’s Scout troop and pack,
respectively. I help my friend and fellow archery
coach at the Mississippi Archery Academy.
Who is someone you admire and why?
I admire those who serve others and give of
themselves freely. I admire individuals who work
hard and are team players. I admire people who
tell the truth straight and don’t sugar coat the facts.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
In ten years, I will have one child finishing college
and the other finishing high school. I see myself
wrapping up my final years as a teacher for
Rankin County School District, spending more
time serving at my church as worship pastor, and
enjoying my family and friends. I hope to be
living in the county on a small piece of land to
share with loved ones.
What is your favorite childhood memory?
I don’t know if I could pick one memory. I do
remember fondly the individual interactions with
my mom, dad, little sister, grandparents, friends,
and church leaders, etc. The relationships are what
are most important. I realize how blessed I am to
be loved and cared for by so many people.
If you could give us one encouraging quote,
what would it be?
Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its
ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life
believing that it is stupid. - Albert Einstein
What is your favorite thing about
Hometown Magazine?
I like that Hometown Magazine focuses on all of
the positive things taking place in Rankin County
and the support for local businesses. The magazine
is very well put together and there is always a wide
variety of material represented.
Hometown RANKIN • 11