Richard Knight Obituary

WATERTOWN, NY – Richard Dean Knight passed away on Wednesday morning, November 27th, 2024 at Samaritan Medical Center. He was 70 years old.

Calling hours will be held on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024 from 11-1 pm at Reed & Benoit Funeral Home. A memorial service will follow at 1 pm. Burial will be held in Brookside Cemetery.

Born in Watertown on October 1, 1954, Richard was the son of Arnold and Marion (Sterling) Knight. In 1972 he graduated from Watertown High School. He went on to work for the Great American Insurance Company, followed by NY Casualty Insurance, and the Hungerford Holbrook Printing Company. In 1988, he began employment in the Accounting Department at the New York Air Brake where he remained until his retirement in 2020. Rich was a hard worker, often holding multiple jobs at the same time.

Rich was the past President of the Northside Improvement League and past President and current Secretary Treasurer of the Watertown Area Model Railroad Club. He was an avid Model Train Enthusiast and enjoyed his time spent at the Railroad Club with all of his buddies.

He was also an avid New York Giants fan, although they have had many disappointing years. An avid outdoorsman, Rich enjoyed camping and fishing, most often at Long Point State Park where he made many friends.

Survivors include his wife, Barbara Knight; daughter, Heather (James) LeClair; grandchildren, Ethan Hawks, Allyson Hawks, Briana LeClair, and James LeClair; sisters-in-law, Beverly Ashley, Beverly Snyder, Beata (Michael) Tharp, Brenda (Joseph) Parker, and Bonnie (Gary) Barney; brother-in-law, Brian (Karen) Snyder; as well as several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

In addition to his parents, Rich was predeceased by three brothers, James E. Knight, Brian S. Knight, and Robert C. Knight.

Family meant everything to Rich. Our hearts are heavy with sadness that he is no longer here, but so glad for the time that we had with him.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Watertown Area Model Railroad Club, 800 Starbuck Ave., Suite A33 Box 12, Watertown, NY  13601.

Arrangements are with Reed & Benoit Funeral Home, Inc. and condolences may be left online at www.reedbenoit.com.