In loving memory of Jack Knights

IN TRIBUTE: Friends speak on quirky Roma identity Jack Knights after his passing on Sunday.

Jack and Finn Owen enjoying a cappacino (and babycino) at Roma Grind.

"HE meant a lot of things to a lot of people - the town has lost a very special person.”

Close friend Peter Lude has paid tribute to Roma identity Jack Knights after his passing on Sunday.

Well loved by the community, Jack would often be seen cruising town in his iconic orange bone ute, or settling in for a coffee and a yarn at Roma Grind cafe.

The outpouring from residents has been immense, with his friends taking to social media to reminisce on their favourite "Jacky” moments.

"He used to pick his neighbours roses and deliver them to people who needed some cheering up,” Sue Williamson said of Jack.

"Such a lovely man who would always spare a minute or three to boost your spirits,” Julie Boulter added.

Everyone has a story to tell about the "quirky music lover.”

Jack with his iconic orange ute, complete with bone bumper.

Mr Lude met Jack in the seventies, when the pianist moved from a St George property to Roma.

"The best way to describe Jack was he felt like a family member,” Mr Lude said.

"We all used to play gigs out at Bassett Park and when we'd finish, Jack would always invite us back to his for a bite to eat - that was the kind of guy he was.

"He was a far better musician than I ever was, and as a person, I always found him to be one of the most gentle - he absolutely adored all living things.”

Mr Lude went on to list some of the things Jack would be remembered for.

"He used to do a lot of gardening for people, and he'd always wear this torn off shirt, with boots,” Mr Lude said.

"The bone on the car was a big one, you'd always know that was Jack's car.

"He also used to call of his dogs snatch-it, no matter which dog it was.”

To Roma local Lauren Owen, Jack was like a second father.

"My dad used to play in the local band, and Jack, being very musical, crossed paths with him - and that is how he became part of our family,” Ms Owen said.

"In recent years he used to go from coffee shop to coffee shop, making conversation with everyone. Roma Grind was certainly his local haunt.

"When I had lunch with him in town I would have to give us 20 minutes to leave the place as Jack would know everyone on the way out,” Ms Owen laughed.

Ms Owen said Jack was a charitable man, who could often be found paying a visit to residents at Pinaroo retirement village and helping out with Roma's performing arts scene.

Jack spent his last days doing what he loved, relaxing with a coffee in hand at Roma Grind.

His service is due to be held at 10am on Friday at Roma's Anglican Church.

Originally published as In loving memory of Jack Knights