Her Beautiful Journey

Eara (Earie) Jean Knight Coleman beloved mother, grandmother, sister, friend, and faithful servant, departed this life peacefully on July 27, 2026.

Born on September 19, 1945, in Kaufman, Texas, Eara was the cherished daughter of Howard Knight, Sr. and Lillian Frances Jackson Knight. As the eldest daughter of seven children, she exemplified servant leadership from an early age. Through her steadfast faith, compassionate heart, and unwavering devotion to her family, she became a pillar of strength whose legacy of love, sacrifice, and grace will continue to inspire all who knew her.

In 1963, Eara embraced one of life's greatest blessings with the birth of her beloved son, Anthony Bernard Knight. She embraced motherhood with the same love, strength, and devotion that would define her life. After graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1964, she began a distinguished career with John Deere, where she faithfully served for more than 30 years.

Following her retirement, she continued serving others as a private caregiver for several families throughout the Dallas area. Eara also had a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, operating small businesses over the years selling holiday gift baskets, clothing, hats, and furniture.

Eara embraced life with enthusiasm and purpose. She loved attending luncheons, brunches, and social gatherings throughout the Dallas community, where her warm smile and vibrant personality left a lasting impression. She was an active member of the South Dallas Business and Professional Women's Club, Inc., and proudly served as President of the Madison/Roosevelt Class of 1964 Alumni Association. Her adventurous spirit and love of travel took her around the world—from cruising through Alaska, to celebrating with friends at the Essence Festival in New Orleans, to serving others on a mission trip to Ghana. Each journey reflected her curiosity, generosity, and appreciation for life's many experiences.

Above all, Eara's faith was the foundation of her life. For more than 20 years, she was a devoted member of Concord Church, where she actively participated in Tuesday Morning Bible Study and the Smith/Blair/Hill Sunday School Class. She faithfully served in the Daughters of Judah Dance Ministry and the VIPs Ministry. She was also a dedicated participant in Bible Study Fellowship through both the Richardson and Concord groups for several years. She participated in the Women of Wisdom support group. She also faithfully participated in daily prayer calls with women from across the country. Her unwavering relationship with God was evident in the way she loved, served, encouraged, and prayed for others.

Family was the heartbeat of Eara's life. She found her greatest joy in nurturing those she loved, celebrating their accomplishments, and creating lasting memories together. Her life was a beautiful reflection of unconditional love, steadfast faith, and selfless devotion.

She was welcomed into eternal rest by her beloved parents, Howard Knight, Sr. and Lillian Frances Jackson Knight Williams; her beloved son, Anthony Bernard Knight; and her siblings, Elbert and Voncel, who preceded her in death.

Eara leaves to cherish her precious memory: her granddaughters, Kendra Hayes (Albert), Toni B. Knight, and Kimberly Knight (Christen); her treasured great-grandsons, Jackson and Hendrix Smith; her siblings, Claudine, Howard (Eva), Delbert (Alzaton), and Linda; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who were blessed by her life, her faith, and her