By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Robert Knight of Luverne, affectionately known as “Ebay”, has long been a pillar of the community. Known for his kindness, generosity and willingness to help others, Knight now finds himself in need of support as he battles serious health issues that have left him unable to work.

Knight battles health concerns including stage three congestive heart failure, stage four renal failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and other health problems. With the help of several community members, fundraisers have been organized to assist Knight and his family during this challenging time.

“Ebay has always been a helpful hand to the community and he also served in the Navy,” said Marcia Brown of Rutledge, who organized a raffle to support the Knight family. “He has a lot of tough obstacles ahead of him, and Ebay and his family need some help like he has given over the years.”

Prior to his health decline, Knight worked in roles that allowed him to serve his community and answer his life’s calling, working at the Luverne Health and Rehabilitation, Luverne Rescue, Crenshaw Community Hospital and Beacon Behavioral Hospital, earning a reputation for his tireless efforts. He and his wife, Victoria, have four children, ranging in age from 16 to 32, and eight grandchildren. 

Since moving to Luverne in 1994, Knight has dedicated himself to serving the people of Crenshaw County, working multiple jobs and always going the extra mile to lend a hand. Cheyenne Tillery, a close friend and colleague, launched a GoFundMe campaign on Knight’s behalf. 

“Ebay is nothing short of incredible,” said Tillery. “I worked with him for over five years, but I’ve known him for most of my life. When I was a kid, I thought he was a superhero. Now, as an adult, I realize there just isn’t a cape big enough for his shoulders.”

With Victoria’s income as their only source of financial support, the community has stepped in to help the family as they navigate these difficult times. As the family’s sole breadwinner, transportation to work is a challenge for Victoria and friends and co-workers have stepped in to provide rides.

Tillery started a GoFundMe campaign after seeing how much Knight and his wife were struggling. She noted that Knight has always been deeply involved in the community, helping and saving others. 

“He was in the hospital all last week and had to have six pounds of fluid drained,” she said. “He still has a long way to go, but he’s a great guy, and it warms my heart to see how many people agree with that.”

Knight’s journey of service to the community began after he graduated from Dozier High School in 1990. Following a stint in the Navy, Knight returned to Alabama to care for his ailing mother. Over the years, he worked as a patient care tech and eventually joined Luverne Rescue, where he spent 24 years helping save lives.

Knight said that he loves the Lord first and foremost, and that he loves and appreciates his family deeply. Knight enjoys fishing, going to church and spending time with his family and friends. 

“I have been having a lot of difficulty not being able to do what I think that I was put on this earth to do, and that’s to help people,” Knight said. “The Lord gives everyone gifts, no matter how big or small, and it is our choice to use them how He wants us to. Since I have been down and out, the words ‘I’m praying for you’ truly touch me and put me in a better mood and I’m now positive that I’ve done my best by the way people come up to me and say ‘thank you’ and hug me. I really know in my heart that I am blessed beyond my wildest dreams.”

In addition to the GoFundMe campaign, Luverne Rescue is hosting a barbecue plate fundraiser on Sept. 27. Plates are $15 each and can be picked up at 142 West Sixth Street. The last day to order a plate is Sept. 25.

“Filing for disability can take up to two or three years before approval,” said Susan Boatwright of Luverne Rescue. “Whether you buy a plate or donate in some other way, let’s give back to this man who has given his community so much more. Even $1 helps.”

Victoria Knight, expressed her gratitude for the community’s support. 

 “The Lord has really shown me what a loving community I’m in,” she said. “Ebay is getting all the love he never knew existed in our community. May God bless each and every one of you.”

To donate, visit: gofund.me/583a6ed8. To purchase a barbecue plate from Luverne Rescue, please send the Luverne Rescue private message on social media.