The Harvesters

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of our dear friend and longtime director, Irby McKnight.

In 2007, while serving as Vice President of University Advancement, Irby approached President Kermit Bridges with a bold idea: to help raise support for Nelson University (then SAGU) by bringing back the Harvesters in the form of a southern gospel quartet.

President Bridges was initially hesitant - even asking Irby to occasionally give a lighthearted disclaimer at the beginning of the services where we performed. Yet what began as a simple idea grew into an effective and powerful ministry. Eleven years later, when Irby retired, the Harvesters were still going strong. Over that time, nearly twenty students had the opportunity to serve in the group, traveling across numerous states and countries while helping raise support for scholarships, university initiatives, facilities, and benevolence.

Irby was a warm, gregarious presence and was beloved by students, faculty, and staff alike. He had the remarkable ability to make everyone feel as though they were a close friend.

Our prayers are with his wife, Vicki; his son Jordan (Mary Jo); his daughter Erin (Nathan); and his beloved grandchildren.

Irby’s impact on the Harvesters, Nelson University, and his life in ministry will never be forgotten.

A visitation will be held at 12:00 PM and his celebration of his life follow at 1:00 PM this Saturday, March 21 at Trinity Lighthouse Church in Denison, TX.

Sincerely,

The Harvesters Alumni