Richard M. Knighten, age 78, passed away peacefully on June 1, 2026. He was born on September 21, 1947, and was originally from Montgomery, Louisiana. In recent years, he resided in Winnfield, Louisiana, with his daughter Kelly and her family.

Richard enjoyed spending time with his grandkids and helping kids out when he could.  He enjoyed doing his bus route and most kids on his route.  He especially enjoyed fishing with Reggie and his grandkids when he got a chance. He was a devoted Christian who faithfully served the Lord throughout his life. He was a longtime member of the Montgomery UPC and attended New Beginning Worship Center in Montgomery. Most recently, he attended The Family Church in Winnfield, Louisiana. His faith was a guiding force in his life and was reflected in the love he showed to family and friends.

Richard enjoyed raising a garden and spending time with those he loved most. He never met a stranger and cherished the friendships he made throughout his life. His kind spirit, sense of humor, and love for family will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his ex-wife, Sharon Berry Knighten; his son, James Richard Knighten; his grandsons, D.J. Lambert; and Aron Henry and fur-baby, Lily.

Left to cherish his memory are his son, Reginald Berry; and his daughters, Helen Dauzart and husband Laine, Trish Raines and husband Paul, Jewel Naron and husband Roy, and Kelly and husband Jerry. He is also survived by a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Richard also leaves behind his faithful fur baby, Ghost, and his lifelong best friend, Al Washington.

He is survived by his brothers, Ray Pender and wife Judy, and Ricky Pender; and his sister, Julie Doyal.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Reggie Berry, Levi Berry, Drake Woodard, Taylor Woodard, Mark Green, Devin Primm, and Alan Turner.  Honorary Pallbearers will be Al Washington, and Logan Hebert,

Visitation will be held at Southern Funeral Home on Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

A graveside service will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday at St. Maurice Cemetery in St. Maurice, Louisiana.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

The family wishes to express special thanks to Heart of Hospice for the compassionate, excellent care they provided Richard.

Expressions of sympathy and condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.southernfuneralhome.com.