Mrs. Rilla Doretha Knight

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Rilla Doretha Knight, who departed this life on June 27,2025, at the age of 74, surrounded by her children and grandchildren.

Born on April 17, 1951, Doretha was a God-fearing woman whose unwavering faith guided every step of her journey. She was the epitome of kindness, gentleness, and grace– a sweet spirit whose presence made everyone feel at home. Her life was a testament to love in action: through every meal prepared, every prayer lifted, every encouraging word spoken, and every hug freely given.

Doretha was a graduate of Clay County High School, class of 1970. She gave her life to the Lord and was a member of Apostolic Miracle Temple in Ashland, AL.

Doretha was the beloved child of the late Dennis Smith and Martha Ann Cunningham Smith. Doretha was proceeded in death by two loving sisters, Rosa Marie Sims and Patricia Ann Tatum; two loving brothers Frank Paul Smith and Tommy Smith. She  is survived by two sisters, Elnora Mitchell and Beatrice Heflin, who will cherish the memories they have together.

Doretha was a loving wife to her late husband Joe, devoted mother to Shuntonio (Yolanda) Hobbs, Reginald (Nicole) Harrison, and Monica Harrison, a cherished grandmother to Keshunna (Jevon) Carvin, Shae Walls, Timothy  McKinney, Tremaine Hobbs, Joshua McCurty, Jamal Hobbs, Jaden Harrison, Kali Calhoun, James Harrison Jr., Jacob Harrison, and  Caridee Whetstone; A proud  great grandmother to Mehki, Seren, and Amira Carvin.

She poured herself selflessly into her family nurturing generations with wisdom, warmth, and compassion. Her smile, laughter, and gentle soul left an indelible mark on all who had the honor of knowing her.

She now rests in the loving arms of her Savior, reunited with those who have gone before her, and watching over those she leaves behind.

Though our hearts are heavy, we celebrate the life and legacy of a remarkable woman whose faith never wavered, whose love knew no bound, and whose memory will forever live on in us.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mrs. Rilla Doretha Knight, please visit our floral store.