Robert Earl McKnight

Robert E. McKnight was born on November 15, 1959, in Jonestown, Mississippi. He was sent to his eternal home on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at Saint Francis Hospital after a courageous battle with cancer. He was the beloved son of the late Katie Mae McKnight and Robert Williams. Robert Earl, as he was affectionately known, was a shining light in the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. His journey on this earth was marked by compassion and an unwavering faith in God. His passing has left a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and the many others whose lives he touched. We ask that you remember him not for the way his life ended, but for how it was lived-and for the profound impact he had on everyone blessed to know him. Robert's relationship with Christ began as a child at Mary Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Jonestown, Mississippi, where he was baptized. His faith remained strong throughout his life, as he continued his spiritual journey by joining churches in various states where he settled. He is survived by his loving wife, Josephine McKnight, and his five sons: Andre Brinson (Hartford, CT), Jerome Cushman (New London, CT), Trever Starks, Larry Starks, and Kevin Starks, (all of Hartford, CT). He is also survived by his sisters: Dorothy McKnight and Reanetha McKnight (Hartford, CT); Shawn Williams and Carroll Williams (Jonestown, MS); and his brothers: Sidney McKnight (New Castle, PA), Derrick Williams and Dennis Williams (Jonestown, MS). Robert leaves behind a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, devoted cousins, and his cherished aunt, Sarah McKnight (Windsor, CT). He was deeply loved by all his cousins, who were more like siblings to him. In Robert Earl's own words, he often reminded them that he was "the oldest"-a title he held with pride and affection. He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Dixie and Joseph McKnight; siblings, Joseph McKnight and Deanetha McKnight; uncles and aunts: Napoleon Gates, Ruby McKnight, Rev. McKinley McKnight, Bobby Sand McKnight, Maurice McKnight-Gates, Palmer Lee McKnight, and Gwendolyn Gardner; and his nephew, Anthony Harrison. After graduating from New Castle High School, Robert Earl turned down a baseball scholarship to pursue a mission to enrich his life and the lives of his family. He moved to Hartford, CT, and later graduated from the New Castle School of Trades with a degree in welding. He retired from Securitas in 2019 after 20 years of dedicated service, leaving a lasting impact on the company and its employees. Outside of work, Robert loved football and was an avid Dallas Cowboys fan. He will be remembered for his infectious laughter, his deep-rooted faith in Jesus Christ, and his unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness to everyone he met. Robert Earl had a unique gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impression on all who crossed his path. His obituary and service details will be forthcoming. We thank you for your understanding.