Richard Knight - Obituary

ICHARD WAYNE KNIGHT March 21, 1957 – September 25, 2009 Richard's early years were spent in diagnostic centers, also identified to him as schools. He liked his first schools, learning exercise songs such as, “Go You Chicken Fat, Go.” He always laughed at that. Another song was “I Can Sing a Rainbow,” naming all the colors. At an early age, he learned to swim. Within five minutes after arrival from school, he was in the backyard pool. He learned to read and write at fourth-grade level. He liked Dr. Seuss books and a set of Bible stories, which were adapted in rhyme and pictures. In his early teens, he accepted Christ, attended the membership class and was baptized at Forest Heights Baptist Church. Not long after that, it became obvious to him that his life wasn't going to be like that of others. In his adult life, he lived in the care of Melwood Services, and participated in the day program at Ardmore Enterprises. Under their supervision he has done various assembly tasks and developed several friendships. For the last approximately 16 years, his primary Community Living Assistant at Melwood has been Grayson Gibson, who is a combination father and brother to him. He grew in self-confidence and self-control under Grayson's care. He liked spending time with his family on weekends and holidays. He enjoyed bowling, watching television, Putt-putt golf, eating, and riding in the car. He passed on to be with the Lord on September 25, 2009. He is preceded in death by his father, Frank T. Knight. Surviving him are his mother Marilyn, two brothers Robert P. and Douglas C. as well as his sister Carol Joy McNamara and several nieces and nephews. He also leaves his housemates James, Delvin, and Jim. On Friday, September 25, 2009. The beloved son of Marilyn C. Knight and the late Richard Knight. Friends may call at the GEORGE P. KALAS FUNERAL HOME, 6160 Oxon Hill Rd. Oxon Hill, MD. on Thursday from 7 to 9PM, where services will be held on Friday, October 2 at 9:30AM. Interment Maryland Veterans Cemetery, Cheltenham, MD. Family requests donations be made to: Melwood c/o Fund Development 5606 Dower House Rd Upper Marlboro, MD 20772 Ardmore Enterprises 3000 Lottsford Vista Rd Mitchellville, MD 20721