Celebrating the life of
Richard Clyde Knight
December 17, 1952 - November 29, 2011
Richard Clyde Knight, 58, of Savannah, Georgia, passed away at home on Tuesday morning, November 29th, surrounded by family and friends, after a courageous battle with ALS. Rick was known for his great sense of humor and always enjoyed a good joke. He filled life with laughter.
He was preceded in death by his son, Brian Knight.
Rick is survived by his wife of thirty-two years, Cheri Lanier Knight; his sons, Richard Lindsey and Daniel Knight. He is also survived by his parents, John C. Jug and Claire Knight; brother, CarltonJeanie; sister, Cindy Craig Meyer; niece, Leigh George Ryan; nephews, Trey, Matt, and Wesley Knight, Henry Chappel, Gene Spiva, Wesley Coombs, Michael Jr. and William Lanier. Mother-in-law, Diane Lanier Conner; sisters-in-law, Carol Coombs and Joanne Lanier; brothers-in-law, Rene and Michael Lanier. He is also survived by several aunts, cousins, and a wealth of close friends.
Born in Savannah, Georgia, December 17, 1952, he grew up in the Blueberry Hill neighborhood, attended Chatham County Schools and graduated from Jenkins High School in 1971. Rick was part of the very successful football team and was a Communicant of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church.
Rick was a career electrician and had been employed at SEPCO, Rabey Electric and later owned RCK Enterprises until the time of his death. His passion was athletics, watching his sons' sporting events, and he was an avid Georgia football fan. He played on numerous softball teams throughout the city as an adult. Known as Coach Knight, he dedicated his life coaching, mentoring, and inspiring children in football, baseball, and soccer beginning in 1974 with the Isle of Hope football team, the Bulldogs. His coaching career included the Pirates, Rovers, Sidekicks and Strikers Select Soccer, and YMCA Youth Teams.
Rick loved spending time outdoors with his family and large group of friends. He especially enjoyed the coastal marshes, various water activities, or just sitting by the water itself near his home.
The active pallbearers include Jimmy Alderman, Archie Bunger, Buddy Hall, Eddie Rappe', Glenn Tambon, Craig Wiederhold, and John Willoughby.
The family would like to acknowledge Spanish Oaks Hospice for the loving care they provided Rick and his family.
Visitation: 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., Thursday, December 1, 2011 at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church with a Christian Wake Service at 6:00 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial: 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 2, 2011 at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church with Monsignor P. James Costigan, Celebrant.
Burial: Hillcrest Abbey Memorial Park.
Remembrances: In lieu of flowers remembrances can be made to St. Peter the Apostle Church and Spanish Oaks Hospice of Savannah.
Please sign our online guestbook at www.foxandweeks.com
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Islands Chapel
Cheri, Cindy and I are deeply sorrowed by your loss of Richard. We only knew him through our conversations with you at the office and know the love that you and your family shared. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Brian and Cynthia Fancher
- Brian & Cynthia Fancher, Rincon, GA
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that the Knight family is always in out prayers.
- Russ and Norma Perry, Savannah, GA
I met Rick when he first began working at Rabey Electric. He was always a great sport to call on as a customer but as time went on,I don't remember talking too much about work when we met on jobsites! You see working with Rick never really seemed like work to me.He will be sorley missed and I will always remember his great laugh and his huge smile. I am proud to have known him. Please accept my kindest regards to your family. Respectfully, Joe Brettschneider friend
- Joe, Savannah, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with the Knight family. God bless and comfort you.
- Sam Remley, Marietta, GA
I was so sorry to hear of Rick's illness and passing. I often think back to the family softball games and all of the laughs we all shared. And especially the fun times in the parking lot at the 'dump' after the games. Rick was loved by everyone out there. Thoughts and prayers with all of you at this time. Debra
- Debra Donnelly Cole, Midway, GA
Cousin Cheri and family, Very sorry to here of Rickys passing. Although our familys havn't been close in many years, i looked up to ricky not only because he was about 2 foot taller than me , but he was a great guy . mom would always talk about Ricky and all he tried to do for her. Cheri i pray for you and yours in these tough times. ALAN VANVLECK AND FAMILY
- alan vanvleck, savannah, GA
My thoughts and prayers to the Knight family.
- Terri Ray, , GA
Cheri, Free of pain and suffering.... Brian is ringing the bell...Big smile, rolling laughter..... Ricky received his wings!!!!! I love you my dear friend, Tootie
- Tootie, savannah, GA
Carlton, my heart felt sympathy goes out to you and your family in this time of sorrow in losing your loving brother Rickey. May the Lord bless his soul. His passing has had a big impact on me, brothers in fighting this dreaded disease!
- Ken Lemieux, savannah, GA
I was so sorry to hear of Ricky's passing . I had no idea he had been sick . Ricky always made me laugh with some of the things he'd joke about . I know it's hard now for the family . But I hope they know he's at peace now . In time the sad memories of his loss will pass . Then all the good ones will come in place of them . My thoughts are with his family . Arnie
- Arnie Harvey, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Carlton, Jug and Claire: Susie and I are so sorry for your loss, but please know the whole family is in our thoughts and prayers. If there is a silver lining in this situation, it is the fact that Ricky is not suffering anymore and for that we should all be thankful. He was a friend to both of us and our daughter Katherine, and we will surely miss him. Our hearts go out to you, and hopefully time will ease the pain.
- Rick and Susie Doyle, Richmond Hil, GA
sorry about ricky's passing. our thoughts and prayers are wih you . Marie Taggart Black Arnie Mom
- Marie Taggart / Black, Savannah, GA
All of us at Hagemeyer are very sorry for your lose.
- Charlie Murphy, Savannah, GA
Dear Cheri and the Whole Knight Family, We are so saddened to hear of Ricky's passing. We will always remember Ricky for his humor, kindness and the time he unselfishly gave to coaching Jason and many more young men. Just an all aroung great guy. The world is diminished by his loss. We know that the only thing that helps in times like these are the kind thoughts and prayers of friends and loved ones. Please be assured that you are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless, Sherry, Gene and Jason
- Gene, Sherry and Jason Millard, Savannah, GA
God Bless you and Cheri. You will be missed my friend. Enjoyed the soccer and tournaments with you
- Bob Wood, Keller, TX
Cindy and family, keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Jan Elliott realtor
- Jan Elliott, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Our prayers go out to your family. May God keep you strong. The Pughs
- Beth Pugh, Savannah, GA
Sorry to hear of your loss.Our prayers are with all of you.
- jeff and deborah beebe, savannah, GA
Cheri, Richard, Daniel and the Entire Knight family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We know what a difficult time this is for each of you. Cherish his memory and the wonderful memories of the times ya'll spent together. Lean on the 'angels among you', ya'll have a great support system of friends and family who will be there to help you through the days and months to come. God Bless each of you,
- Joe Murphy, Lindsey & Tracie McIntyre, Savannah, GA
Cheri and the Knight Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family... Cheri we love you at MDA!!
- Sherry Aguilar, Richmond Hill, GA
Dearest Cindy and Craig, please know that we are with you in prayer...you and your entire family. We are so sorry for the loss of your wonderful brother. Nevin and Anne Miller
- Anne and Nevin Miller, Dacula, GA
Dear Cheri and Family, Jackie and I would like to extend our sympathy to you and your family. Ricky was one of those rare people who truly loved life. We appreciate his passion for coaching and will always be thankful for his tireless volunteerism. Our family will hold the memories of those days of youth soccer and little league baseball in our hearts. Please know that he will be missed. Sincerely, Jackie and Sheila Johnson
- Jackie Johnson, Savannah, GA
Cheri and boys, I am so sorry, and I am so sorry that I can not be there. I love you all and you are and will remain in my constant prayers.
- Angie Skinner Whiten, Glennville, GA
JUG and family our prayers are with you
- Richard & Cindy Byrd, savannah, GA
Sherry, My brother Rick Doyle just told me of Ricky's passing. I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Janet Doyle Dunnington
- Janet Doyle Dunnington, Manchester, VT
Sherry, Richard and Daniel, I am so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. My brother Jim thought very highly of him and he was special to a lot of people. He will always be remembered fondly. May God Bless your family during this difficult time.
- Julie Hagan, Guyton, GA
Sherry and all of the Knight Family: My heart and prayers are with you all. Delia
- Delia B. Sadler, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Richard and Daniel, Our prayers go out to all of you because you have been through so much. Just remember he is better off now and is in a better place and not in pain. Love what you have to remember and remember the friends that are here to be there for you.
- Harry and Sherri Burnsed Connolly, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Richard, and Daniel: Dealing with Lou Gehrigs was tough, but I know that your care and support of Rick brought him comfort. He will be greatly missed, but his spirit will always be with you. Society tells us what we must have to be happy- a new house or a bigger house, a better job- but all these things do not make you happy, and happiness will never come; you will only feel emptier. Be satisfied, be grateful, for what you have, for the love you receive, and for what God has given you. That is the secret to happiness, and it starts with the time you spend with loved ones. Time is worth more than all of the material possessions you can ever have and can never be replaced. The time you had with Rick was precious and be grateful that you had that time. He is in my thoughts, and I will always remember how willing he was to help anyone who asked. Love to you all.
- Rosanne Brandt and Mike Pascale, Port Orange, FL
Bubba Rick was always the life of the party and was always the first in line to help others if need be. He will be greatly missed, but I know he is in a better place now. My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to Cheri and the family. God Bless You guys
- Jody Sadler, Oklahoma City, OK
I feel blessed to have known Mr. Rick. He was an amazing influence/mentor/example/buddy to my youngest brother and the rest of the 'crew' that have grown up together. It hurts my heart that he suffered, but I am relieved that he is now eternally healthy and happy. The entire family is in my thoughts and prayers.
- Christy Knorr-Miller, Rincon, GA
Cheri,Richard,Daniel, What a guy! And a great family. You are always in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless You, Janet & Ray
- Janet & Ray Nickens, Savannah, GA
Dear Cheri and family, Our hearts are heavy with sorrow to hear of Rick's death and at the same time comforted by the reassurance that he suffers no more. We know that he is in a better place and has been reunited with your dear son Brian. What a courageous family the Knights are, so united in emotional and physical strength, coming together as a family dealing with this terrible disease head on, but then we have always known that about the entire Knight family. Please know that all of you are in our thoughts and we pray for your continued strength in the coming days. In heartfelt sympathy, Cindy and John Howard
- Cindy Howard, Savannah, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Knight family
- Aaron Von Lehmden, Savannah, GA
Cheri....You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers....we extend our deepest sympathies.
- Rich, Linda and Mike Slater, Rincon, GA
Richard and Lindsey so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. Love, Aunt Theresa
- Theresa Weatherford, Augusta, GA
Rick was an amazing man with an amazing family. May G-d bless you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Nancy Bracker, Savannah, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Ricky was blessed to have so many people that loved him. He will be missed.
- Pam and Lynn Morris, Savannah, GA
Knight Family, We are so sorry to hear of Ricky's passing. We have nothing but fond memories of our times together. He was a great man and he loved people and life. The world is a better place for having had Ricky in it. May he rest in peace and may the Lord comfort all of you in this time of grief.
- Rick and Cathy Jordan, Vidalia, GA
While we never had the chance to meet Trey's Uncle Rick, we know he was loved by his family. We wish you all peace and consolation through the happy memories you hold always in your hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time. ~Betty and Mike Newell Mimi's Parents
- Betty and Mike Newell, Apex, NC
Cheri, Cindy and I are deeply sorrowed by your loss of Richard. We only knew him through our conversations with you at the office and know the love that you and your family shared. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. Brian and Cynthia Fancher
- Brian & Cynthia Fancher, Rincon, GA
We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that the Knight family is always in out prayers.
- Russ and Norma Perry, Savannah, GA
I met Rick when he first began working at Rabey Electric. He was always a great sport to call on as a customer but as time went on,I don't remember talking too much about work when we met on jobsites! You see working with Rick never really seemed like work to me.He will be sorley missed and I will always remember his great laugh and his huge smile. I am proud to have known him. Please accept my kindest regards to your family. Respectfully, Joe Brettschneider friend
- Joe, Savannah, GA
My thoughts and prayers are with the Knight family. God bless and comfort you.
- Sam Remley, Marietta, GA
I was so sorry to hear of Rick's illness and passing. I often think back to the family softball games and all of the laughs we all shared. And especially the fun times in the parking lot at the 'dump' after the games. Rick was loved by everyone out there. Thoughts and prayers with all of you at this time. Debra
- Debra Donnelly Cole, Midway, GA
Cousin Cheri and family, Very sorry to here of Rickys passing. Although our familys havn't been close in many years, i looked up to ricky not only because he was about 2 foot taller than me , but he was a great guy . mom would always talk about Ricky and all he tried to do for her. Cheri i pray for you and yours in these tough times. ALAN VANVLECK AND FAMILY
- alan vanvleck, savannah, GA
My thoughts and prayers to the Knight family.
- Terri Ray, , GA
Cheri, Free of pain and suffering.... Brian is ringing the bell...Big smile, rolling laughter..... Ricky received his wings!!!!! I love you my dear friend, Tootie
- Tootie, savannah, GA
Carlton, my heart felt sympathy goes out to you and your family in this time of sorrow in losing your loving brother Rickey. May the Lord bless his soul. His passing has had a big impact on me, brothers in fighting this dreaded disease!
- Ken Lemieux, savannah, GA
I was so sorry to hear of Ricky's passing . I had no idea he had been sick . Ricky always made me laugh with some of the things he'd joke about . I know it's hard now for the family . But I hope they know he's at peace now . In time the sad memories of his loss will pass . Then all the good ones will come in place of them . My thoughts are with his family . Arnie
- Arnie Harvey, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Carlton, Jug and Claire: Susie and I are so sorry for your loss, but please know the whole family is in our thoughts and prayers. If there is a silver lining in this situation, it is the fact that Ricky is not suffering anymore and for that we should all be thankful. He was a friend to both of us and our daughter Katherine, and we will surely miss him. Our hearts go out to you, and hopefully time will ease the pain.
- Rick and Susie Doyle, Richmond Hil, GA
sorry about ricky's passing. our thoughts and prayers are wih you . Marie Taggart Black Arnie Mom
- Marie Taggart / Black, Savannah, GA
All of us at Hagemeyer are very sorry for your lose.
- Charlie Murphy, Savannah, GA
Dear Cheri and the Whole Knight Family, We are so saddened to hear of Ricky's passing. We will always remember Ricky for his humor, kindness and the time he unselfishly gave to coaching Jason and many more young men. Just an all aroung great guy. The world is diminished by his loss. We know that the only thing that helps in times like these are the kind thoughts and prayers of friends and loved ones. Please be assured that you are in our thoughts and prayers. God Bless, Sherry, Gene and Jason
- Gene, Sherry and Jason Millard, Savannah, GA
God Bless you and Cheri. You will be missed my friend. Enjoyed the soccer and tournaments with you
- Bob Wood, Keller, TX
Cindy and family, keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Jan Elliott realtor
- Jan Elliott, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Our prayers go out to your family. May God keep you strong. The Pughs
- Beth Pugh, Savannah, GA
Sorry to hear of your loss.Our prayers are with all of you.
- jeff and deborah beebe, savannah, GA
Cheri, Richard, Daniel and the Entire Knight family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. We know what a difficult time this is for each of you. Cherish his memory and the wonderful memories of the times ya'll spent together. Lean on the 'angels among you', ya'll have a great support system of friends and family who will be there to help you through the days and months to come. God Bless each of you,
- Joe Murphy, Lindsey & Tracie McIntyre, Savannah, GA
Cheri and the Knight Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family... Cheri we love you at MDA!!
- Sherry Aguilar, Richmond Hill, GA
Dearest Cindy and Craig, please know that we are with you in prayer...you and your entire family. We are so sorry for the loss of your wonderful brother. Nevin and Anne Miller
- Anne and Nevin Miller, Dacula, GA
Dear Cheri and Family, Jackie and I would like to extend our sympathy to you and your family. Ricky was one of those rare people who truly loved life. We appreciate his passion for coaching and will always be thankful for his tireless volunteerism. Our family will hold the memories of those days of youth soccer and little league baseball in our hearts. Please know that he will be missed. Sincerely, Jackie and Sheila Johnson
- Jackie Johnson, Savannah, GA
Cheri and boys, I am so sorry, and I am so sorry that I can not be there. I love you all and you are and will remain in my constant prayers.
- Angie Skinner Whiten, Glennville, GA
JUG and family our prayers are with you
- Richard & Cindy Byrd, savannah, GA
Sherry, My brother Rick Doyle just told me of Ricky's passing. I am so very sorry for your loss. Please know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Janet Doyle Dunnington
- Janet Doyle Dunnington, Manchester, VT
Sherry, Richard and Daniel, I am so sorry to hear of Rick's passing. My brother Jim thought very highly of him and he was special to a lot of people. He will always be remembered fondly. May God Bless your family during this difficult time.
- Julie Hagan, Guyton, GA
Sherry and all of the Knight Family: My heart and prayers are with you all. Delia
- Delia B. Sadler, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Richard and Daniel, Our prayers go out to all of you because you have been through so much. Just remember he is better off now and is in a better place and not in pain. Love what you have to remember and remember the friends that are here to be there for you.
- Harry and Sherri Burnsed Connolly, Savannah, GA
Cheri, Richard, and Daniel: Dealing with Lou Gehrigs was tough, but I know that your care and support of Rick brought him comfort. He will be greatly missed, but his spirit will always be with you. Society tells us what we must have to be happy- a new house or a bigger house, a better job- but all these things do not make you happy, and happiness will never come; you will only feel emptier. Be satisfied, be grateful, for what you have, for the love you receive, and for what God has given you. That is the secret to happiness, and it starts with the time you spend with loved ones. Time is worth more than all of the material possessions you can ever have and can never be replaced. The time you had with Rick was precious and be grateful that you had that time. He is in my thoughts, and I will always remember how willing he was to help anyone who asked. Love to you all.
- Rosanne Brandt and Mike Pascale, Port Orange, FL
Bubba Rick was always the life of the party and was always the first in line to help others if need be. He will be greatly missed, but I know he is in a better place now. My thoughts and prayers continue to go out to Cheri and the family. God Bless You guys
- Jody Sadler, Oklahoma City, OK
I feel blessed to have known Mr. Rick. He was an amazing influence/mentor/example/buddy to my youngest brother and the rest of the 'crew' that have grown up together. It hurts my heart that he suffered, but I am relieved that he is now eternally healthy and happy. The entire family is in my thoughts and prayers.
- Christy Knorr-Miller, Rincon, GA
Cheri,Richard,Daniel, What a guy! And a great family. You are always in our thoughts and prayers. May God Bless You, Janet & Ray
- Janet & Ray Nickens, Savannah, GA
Dear Cheri and family, Our hearts are heavy with sorrow to hear of Rick's death and at the same time comforted by the reassurance that he suffers no more. We know that he is in a better place and has been reunited with your dear son Brian. What a courageous family the Knights are, so united in emotional and physical strength, coming together as a family dealing with this terrible disease head on, but then we have always known that about the entire Knight family. Please know that all of you are in our thoughts and we pray for your continued strength in the coming days. In heartfelt sympathy, Cindy and John Howard
- Cindy Howard, Savannah, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Knight family
- Aaron Von Lehmden, Savannah, GA
Cheri....You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers....we extend our deepest sympathies.
- Rich, Linda and Mike Slater, Rincon, GA
Richard and Lindsey so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your family are in my prayers. Love, Aunt Theresa
- Theresa Weatherford, Augusta, GA
Rick was an amazing man with an amazing family. May G-d bless you all. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
- Nancy Bracker, Savannah, GA
Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire family. Ricky was blessed to have so many people that loved him. He will be missed.
- Pam and Lynn Morris, Savannah, GA
Knight Family, We are so sorry to hear of Ricky's passing. We have nothing but fond memories of our times together. He was a great man and he loved people and life. The world is a better place for having had Ricky in it. May he rest in peace and may the Lord comfort all of you in this time of grief.
- Rick and Cathy Jordan, Vidalia, GA
While we never had the chance to meet Trey's Uncle Rick, we know he was loved by his family. We wish you all peace and consolation through the happy memories you hold always in your hearts. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this time. ~Betty and Mike Newell Mimi's Parents
- Betty and Mike Newell, Apex, NC
Services under the direction of:
Fox & Weeks Funeral Directors, Hodgson Chapel
912-352-7200
