Richard Lea McKnight

Richard L. McKnight Sr., age 92, passed away peacefully at his home on November 5, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

Born on June 28, 1933, in Jackson, La, Richard lived a life marked by faith, devotion, and service. He was a proud veteran of the Korean War and a man known for his quiet strength, steadfast work ethic, and deep love for his family and community. He exemplified one of his sayings, “I’d rather see a sermon than hear one any day.” Richard truly lived his faith through daily acts of kindness, humility, and love.

He was devoted to and survived by his loving wife of nearly 70 years, Carmen Barnett McKnight, and their three children: Richard McKnight Jr. (“Ricky”), Vickie McKnight Evans, and Emmett McKnight Sr.

He was a cherished grandfather to Rebecca Rittell (Adam), Luke Ash (Emily), Benjamin Ash (Bethany), Emmett McKnight Jr., Brittany McKnight, and Shane McKnight; and a beloved great-grandfather to Victoria and Noah Rittell (Kayleigh), Ruth, Pauline, Reuben, Iris, Gabriel, Caleb, Esther, and Elijah Ash, Jeremy, Zariyah Lea, Xakry, and Yahni McKnight, and Sunnie Logan. His family will soon welcome a great-great-grandson, Waylon Rittell, whose arrival Richard greatly anticipated.

Richard is also survived by his loving sisters, Janette Hansen and Carolyn Covington, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him deeply.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett Irwin McKnight and Bessie Eunice Eckert McKnight; his brothers Ray, Don, Robert, Vic, and Irwin; his sisters Mae McKnight, Virginia Peters, Shirley Harriman, Vera Johnson, and Fae Whitfield; and his great-grandson, Joel Benjamin Ash.

Richard will be remembered for his devotion to family, his unwavering faith, and his joyful spirit. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and faith that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Services for Richard will be held on Thursday, November 13th 2025 at Stevendale Baptist Church 16545 Old Hammond Hwy, Baton Rouge, LA 70816, visitation will take place from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM, followed by a religious service. 

In lieu of flowers, you can make donations in his memory to St. Jude’s, Wounded Warriors, or Mission 22.