Theresa W. Knight

Today, we gather to honor the remarkable life of Theresa Mae Walker Knight, affectionately known as "Tee," “Grandma Tee,” "Knight," and “Teedie Mae”. Theresa was born on December 7, 1936, to Henry and Irma Buggage Walker in Napoleonville, Louisiana. Baptized at an early age in Saint Benedict Catholic Church, Theresa grew up as the second oldest among eight siblings, surrounded by the warmth of family and the joys of life in the country. Theresa's educational journey led her to St. Benedict’s Middle School of Bertranville, Louisiana, and St. Catherine of Sienna High School of Donaldsonville, Louisiana. She continued her studies at Southern University in Baton Rouge, earning a Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s in Education. It was there that she met her soulmate, Johnnie Edward Knight, sparking a love story that spanned 58 years. Johnnie adored his “Tee”. In 1965, Theresa and Johnnie exchanged vows marking the beginning of a lifelong journey together. Despite facing the loss of her mother at a young age, Theresa displayed remarkable resilience, becoming a pillar of strength for her younger siblings. She embarked on a teaching career, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of her students at Read Elementary School in Napoleonville and later, Phyllis Wheatley Elementary School in New Orleans. Theresa's dedication extended to supporting her siblings, ensuring they had the opportunities they deserved. Motherhood brought Theresa immense joy as she welcomed two daughters, Arlene Maria and Shelita Theresa. Exactly 11 years later from the day of Shelita’s birth, their son, Johnnie Edward Knight, Jr., affectionately known as "Flu-baby" was born. This unexpected blessing brought laughter into their lives, because Tee originally thought that her sickness from pregnancy was caused by the flu! Despite the children’s unique personalities, Theresa cultivated deep bonds with each of her children, embodying the true essence of motherhood. She attended every major and minor event in her children’s and grandchildren’s lives, from kindergarten graduation to birthday parties, to games, to pageants, she was always there to support. Known for her warmth and compassion, Theresa was actively involved in various social groups such as "55 and Faster” and The Elegant Ladies Social Group. Additionally, she dedicated her time to many religious organizations, including The Ladies of Auxiliary, The Sodality, and The Legions of Mary where she was a member for over 40 years. These communities provided her with companionship, support, and opportunities to express her unwavering faith. Theresa loved to travel, laugh, and to share cherished moments with her family, while her devotion to the Virgin Mary and the rosary remained steadfast. She was sweet, loving, and generous of her treasure, time, home, and prayers. She always greeted you with a smile and a great hug. Theresa had incredible strength and resilience. Despite any pain that she may have encountered, when asked how she was doing, Theresa always responded, “pretty good”! Theresa entered into her eternal rest with Jesus on March 10, 2024 surrounded by family in her home in New Orleans that she shared with her husband and raised their children. Theresa leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and kindness. She is preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Irma Buggage; sister, Dorothy Mae Blaine; brother, Milton Walker; sister Ruth Ann McQuarter and brother-in law, Leonard; and brother, Edwin Walker and sister-in-law, Jo-Ann. Theresa is survived by her beloved husband, Johnnie Knight, Sr; children, Arlene Knight Lombard (Patrick), Shelita Knight Compton (John), and Johnnie Knight, Jr.; grandchildren Mason Compton, Kendall Compton, Thierri Knight, and Johnnie Knight III (Tre); brother, Arnold Walker (Donna), sister, Evelyn Carter (Charles); brother James Walker, Sr (Mary); long time friends Kat X and Norma Felton, and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends. Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing her. In her final days when Theresa felt that her time was near, she told her family, “Do not worry about me. Pray, I would be concerned if I did not know where I was going. But I have prepared all of my days. I know that I am going to heaven.” Relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend a Funeral Mass at St. Paul Catholic Church, 6828 Chef Menteur Hwy on Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 10:00 am. Visitation at 8:30 am. Arrangements by D.W. Rhodes Funeral Home, 3933 Washington Ave. Please visit www.rhodefuneral.com to sign the online guestbook.