By Kathy Chouteau
The Contra Costa Community College District paid tribute this week to a Richmond resident and retired English teacher who recently died and left behind an impressive legacy at Contra Costa College and in the local community.
Margaret Jean Knox, 94, passed away peacefully at home Aug. 28, according to an obituary posted by the San Francisco Chronicle and SFGATE. Knox was a dedicated member of CCC’s English Department in the early 1970s and remained a loyal supporter following her retirement in 1985. Her legacy lives on at the college, in part, through its John and Jean Knox Center for the Performing Arts, which opened in 2002.
Post-retirement, Knox served on the board of trustees of Berkeley Repertory Theater, including as president from 1989-1991, and also pitched in as a docent. She further pursued her passion for theatre by launching a business called Good Show! that not only gave reviews of London theater productions, but also helped people obtain tickets.
“Jean was a woman of grace, compassion and intelligence, devoted to her family and community. She will be deeply missed, but we take solace in knowing her legacy lives on in her cherished grandchildren and in the many lives she touched,” stated her obituary.
Knox’s husband, John T. Knox, was CA State Assemblyman for the 11th district from 1960-1980. The couple were “passionate about making government work for the people, particularly those in need or advancing racial and environmental justice,” per Jean’s obituary.
Knox will be honored via a private celebration of life sometime in the fall. Those wishing to celebrate Knox can consider a donation to the CCC Foundation “in memory of Jean Knox,” 2600 Mission Bell Dr., San Pablo, CA, 94806.
To read the full obituary detailing Jean’s life, go here.
