Delphine Wagner Knight, 94, resident of Huletts Landing, NY, passed away on July 29, 2021 after a brief illness.
Delphine was born at home in Forest Hills, NY, on February 6, 1927. Growing up she was an accomplished ballerina and equestrian and spent summers in Huletts Landing. She graduated from Forest Hills HS and Barnard College, with a degree in History. Delphine was a lifelong champion of women’s education and equality. After college, Delphine was invited to join the Metropolitan Ballet. Instead, she earned a Masters degree in Education from Columbia University, Teachers College. She then had a successful career as a fashion executive for Associated Dry Goods, with an office at the flagship Lord & Taylor store on Fifth Avenue in New York City, and annual months-long buying trips to London, Paris and Milan.
Delphine met her beloved husband of 66 years, Stiling (Ty) Knight, in Huletts Landing, when they were teenagers. After World War II ended and Ty returned from serving in the U.S. Army, 4th Infantry Division, Delphine and Ty married on June 4, 1955. They raised their family in Forest Hills and Huletts Landing. Delphine was a devoted, loving and supportive daughter, wife, mother and grandmother. She enjoyed spending time with family and friends listening, advising and encouraging them to succeed in their endeavors and overcome challenges. Delphine loved reading books, attending music and dance concerts, playing tennis and golf, swimming and boating on Lake George, holiday celebrations and visiting with friends and neighbors.
Delphine was predeceased by her parents, Dr. William and Delphine Gosselin Wagner, of Forest Hills, NY, and her brother, Dr. William P. Wagner, of Port Washington, NY. She is survived by her beloved and devoted husband, Stiling (Ty) Ferguson Knight of Huletts Landing; her children Delphine (Sean) Brown of Darien, CT, and William Stiling Gerard (Emia) Knight of Port Washington, NY; her grandchildren Derek William Chan Knight, Ian Wagner Brown, Caitlin Chan Knight and Delphine Marie Brown; as well as her nieces and nephews and grandnieces and nephews.
Friends and family will gather at St. Mary of the Assumption, 2026 Lands End Road, Huletts Landing, NY on Saturday, August 7, for calling hours from 8:30 am- 9:45 am followed by Mass at 10 am. A reception will follow the service at a location to be announced.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Huletts Landing Volunteer Fire Department, Skenesborough Emergency Squad or ASPCA, in memory of Delphine Knight.