Gary's Story
Gary Knight, Livermore Falls, Maine, first learned about The Salvation Army as a young child and is proud to now be able to give back. (Pictured above, Gary and his wife.)
We visited Gary and his wife at their home in Livermore Falls, Maine in their living room surrounded by family photographs. Gary told us how he recalls seeing The Salvation Army Red Kettles around town during the holidays as a young boy.
At the time, he didn't really understand what they were doing. "I saw them collecting money for the poor," he expressed, "but not specifically understanding the living out the Christian ideals exhibited by the church behind the kettles."
Gary was brought up in a large family with a Christian background and learned the importance of helping others at a young age. "I have always thought it important to support churches and other organizations that sponsor or support one's fellow man who might need help in life. The Salvation Army has been a leader in practicing what is preached in the Gospel and hence my admiration for that church specifically," he stated.
A few decades ago, Gary's mother established a gift annuity with The Salvation Army, favoring the idea of monthly income for life while also being charitable. Being entrusted with his wife's financials, Gary took the initiative to do the same for his wife and provide her with a continuous income stream that would occur without his intercession.
Gary has been involved in many charitable groups and/or organizations in his lifetime such as EMT/Medical organizations, banking organizations and represented local communities in the state legislature. He believes it is his moral duty to share his knowledge and skills to help others—a sentiment very much rooted in his personal values and Christian background.
Mr. Knight co-founded the regional ambulance service serving as an EMT and chaired several medical organizations throughout Central Maine, including a few years on the hospital board of trustees. He also served the local community by chairing the school board, serving on boards for numerous medical establishments, working with the Boy Scouts of America and coaching in Area Youth Sports.
As an elected Representative in the State Legislature, Gary represented the communities of Wayne, Leeds, Livermore and Livermore Falls. He served 8 years on the Taxation Committee, chairing or holding the minority lead position for 4 of those years. He also chaired the Moderate Caucus where he worked to bring the two parties together on issues.
In addition, Gary held leadership roles in state and national banking organizations and served on the board of trustees of his alma mater, the Williams College School of Banking. He currently holds the role of Chief Agent for his graduating class at Colby College.
From 1962-1999, Knight found initial success as a community banker culminating in his position as President and CEO of Livermore Falls Trust. He continued to serve another 8 years as the Executive Vice President and Chair of The Trust & Investment Division following the merger of LFT and Androscoggin Bank.
In 2020, L. Gary Knight was proud to receive the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award from Marquis Who's Who, the world's premier publisher of biographical profiles. An accomplished listee, Knight celebrates many years' experience in his professional network and has been noted for his achievements, leadership qualities, credentials, and successes he has accrued in his time in his field. Marquis Who's Who selects individuals based on factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility and prominence in a field.