Proctor "PK" Knott Ely, of Chapel Hill, North Carolina died February 16, 2008 at Hillcrest Convalescent Center. Proctor was born on his family's 100 acre farm in Millstone Township, NJ,  on Aug. 20, 1922. He spent half of his life as a Hightstown resident. He served on the Hightstown Board of Health. He was a member and trustee of the Hightstown First Baptist Church. Proctor was also a member of the Hightstown Masonic Lodge No. 41 for over 50 years.

Proctor was a decorated sergeant and World War II veteran who served 31/2 years with the Army Signal Corps. He served 2 1/2 years in North Africa and Italy with the U.S. Fifth Army and was awarded the Purple Heart.

Proctor was a member of the Manasquan Elks #2534. Besides the Manasquan Elks, #2534, he was a member of the American Legion Post #196, Point Pleasant Beach; Point Pleasant VFW, Post #04715; Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 20. One of his pride projects was the establishment of the Elks Rose Garden in Squan Plaza. He volunteered for 14 years and served on the Advisory Board at Point Pleasant Hospital.