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Esther was born in Amelia., Nebraska an February 17, 1924. Her parents were Robert and Harriet Ballagh. They were Farmers and cattlemen in the area tradition now carried on by Esther's brothers.
After completing the prescribed courses at Nebraska State Teachers College in Kearney Nebraska, majoring in music and home economics she began her teaching career. She taught music at District 8 in Wood River from 1947 through 1949 While teaching in Wood River, she met Francis "Doc" Knight. On August 26, 1950 they married. After "Doc" completed his schooling as an X-Ray technician they moved to Kankakee, Illinois. Esther raised one son, Paul and two daughters, Karen and Marla. She later returned to teaching and spent fifteen years in Elementary Education before retiring. Because of her love for music, she also-gave piano lessons at various times.
Esther's pride and joy were the five grandchildren, whom she loved dearly. The Lord took her from us on March 21, 1989. She will never be forgotten ! In honor of her memory, the Wood River Elementary School has purchased a portable public address system from a donation from her family and the Wood River Community Centennial Foundation, Inc.
FRANCIS "DOC" KNIGHT
Francis was born in Wood River, Nebraska on November 8,1920. He was the son of Josiah and Nellie Curry Knight. He had two brothers and a sister. Most people knew him by his nickname,"Doc
He attended school in Wasau, Wisconsin, from which he earned a degree in Radiology. Doc was employed by Central Hospital in Clifton, Illinois for 37 years.
On August 26th, 1950, he married Esther Ballagh and they made their home in Clifton. Together they raised three children; Paul, Karen, and Maria. They were also blessed with five grandchildren who brought them much happiness.
Some of Doc's hobbies included camping and boating which the family enjoyed together. The Lord took him from us on April 22, 1992. He will always be remembered for his good humor and fun loving ways. A donation was given in honor of Doc's memory by his family.
ESTHER BALLAGH KNIGHT