Jeff Knight, the beloved owner of Jannus Live in St. Petersburg, Florida, and a longtime figure in the local restaurant and entertainment scene, tragically passed away on April 27, 2025, in a boating accident on Clearwater Harbor. He was 62 years old.
A passionate entrepreneur, Knight was best known for his stewardship of Jannus Live, the iconic live music venue in downtown St. Petersburg. Under his leadership, Jannus Live became a hub for the local music community, attracting crowds from near and far with its vibrant performances and intimate atmosphere. Knight was instrumental in preserving and transforming the venue, which had been a staple in the city since the early 1980s. His dedication to the arts and entertainment made him a cherished member of the St. Petersburg community.
Beyond his work with Jannus Live, Knight was also involved in a variety of local restaurants and businesses, contributing to the cultural and social fabric of the area for decades. His passion for his work was matched only by his love for the people he worked with and the patrons he served. Those who knew him described him as a generous and kind-hearted man with a relentless drive to improve the community around him.
Knight’s unexpected passing has left a deep void in the lives of those who knew him, from longtime friends and colleagues to the many artists and performers who graced the stage of Jannus Live. His legacy, however, will endure through the venue that bears his influence and through the countless memories he helped create.
Jeff Knight is survived by his family, friends, and the extended Jannus Live family who will continue to honor his memory through their work and dedication to the music and entertainment he so deeply valued.
A celebration of his life will be held at Jannus Live in St. Petersburg, where friends, family, and fans will gather to remember the man who made such a profound impact on the local scene.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to local music and arts organizations in Jeff’s honor.
He will be missed, but his spirit and contributions to St. Petersburg’s music and hospitality scene will never be forgotten.