John L. McKnight Jr.

John L. McKnight, Jr. peacefully departed his earthly home Thursday, September 15, 2022. John was born in Centerville, Mississippi, on July 23, 1950, to the late John L. McKnight Sr. and Christine Parker McKnight. He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife of 38 years, Connie Anderson McKnight, Five children: Dr. Michael John McKnight Sr. (Latoya McKnight), John Lewis McKnight III (Eryn McKnight), one and only daughter, Amber Theresa McKnight-Verrett, JD (Antonio Verrett), Lt. Robert Anderson McKnight Sr. Esq. (Sade’ Jackson-McKnight), and Christopher Stewart McKnight. Twelve grandchildren: Mckenzie Jordan, Bethany Verrett, Marley Kenneth McKnight, Robert Anderson McKnight Jr., Mikell McKnight, Kenndi McKnight, Michael John McKnight Jr., Anya C. McKnight, John L. McKnight IV, Josiah M. McKnight, Avery C. McKnight, Ayla C. McKnight, and godfather to Chanel Laurent. John is survived by two brothers, Gary McKnight and Larry McKnight, one sister, Cassandra McKnight Doss, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends. John is preceded in death by a brother Carter “Curtis” McKnight; father, John L. McKnight Sr.; and mother, Christine Parker McKnight. John was an elementary school teacher, a graduate of Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1968, a graduate of Tulane University New Orleans, Louisiana, and a Vietnam Veteran. John was a community activist extraordinaire, working in the community to provide affordable housing, reading, writing, and mathematics literacy. Also, John assisted the community by taking individuals to vote, helping with voter registration, assisting anyone who asked for help filling out important documents, and giving personal advice. After retirement, John tutored neighborhood children with reading. His joking and firm words were his personality, and those who knew him knew John did not mince his words. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend. John was a history buff, enjoyed football games, watching Greek mythology movies, and adored each holiday, especially Thanksgiving, where he would eat all day and laugh with friends and family. Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Funeral Service honoring John L. McKnight, Jr. at D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave., New Orleans, LA 70125 on Saturday, October 1, 2022 at 10:00 am. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am to 10:00 am. United States Army Honor Guards to present presentation. Interment: Monday, October 3, 2022 at Southeast Louisiana Veterans Cemetery Slidell, LA. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave., New Orleans, LA 70125.