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Ellenton Today
By the People, for the People
Steelworker and Police Chief Donald Ray Knight Passes Away at 87
Knight was a longtime member of Steelworkers Local 1899 and served the Granite City community for over 23 years as a police officer, including as chief.
Published on Mar. 5, 2026
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Donald Ray Knight, a member of Steelworkers Local 1899 and former police chief of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home on February 21, 2026 at the age of 87. Knight had a distinguished career in law enforcement after earlier working at Granite City Steel, and was also known for his many hobbies and adventures, including earning a pilot's license, farming, beekeeping, and panning for gold.
Why it matters
Knight's life exemplified dedication to public service, community, and family. As a steelworker, police officer, and community leader, he left a lasting impact on Granite City and the surrounding region. His passing marks the end of an era for Steelworkers Local 1899 and the Granite City law enforcement community.
The details
Donald Ray Knight began his career working at Granite City Steel before joining the Granite City Police Department, where he served for 23 years and retired as police chief in 1993. He was also a graduate of the FBI Academy, demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence. After retiring from law enforcement, Knight continued to serve his community as director of security at the Alton Belle Casino.
- Donald Ray Knight was born on December 8, 1938 in East Prairie, Missouri.
- Knight married Jane A. (Herren) Knight on December 22, 1957 at the First Baptist Church in Granite City.
- Knight passed away peacefully at his home on February 21, 2026 at the age of 87.
- Knight's visitation was held on February 25, 2026, followed by a police walk-through and memorial service.
- Knight will be buried with full military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at a later date.
The players
Donald Ray Knight
A member of Steelworkers Local 1899 who had a distinguished 23-year career with the Granite City Police Department, retiring as police chief in 1993.
Jane A. (Herren) Knight
Donald Ray Knight's wife of over 68 years.
Steelworkers Local 1899
The local labor union that Donald Ray Knight was a member of.
Granite City Police Department
The law enforcement agency where Donald Ray Knight served for 23 years, retiring as police chief in 1993.
Alton Belle Casino
The casino where Donald Ray Knight worked as director of security after retiring from the Granite City Police Department.
What’s next
Knight will be buried with full military honors at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at a later date.
The takeaway
Donald Ray Knight's life was defined by his dedication to public service, community, and family. As a steelworker, police officer, and community leader, he left a lasting impact on Granite City and the surrounding region, and his passing marks the end of an era for Steelworkers Local 1899 and the Granite City law enforcement community.
