Zachary, Louisiana - Alma Whitley Knighton transitioned from earthly life into eternal rest on December 28, 2025. Though deeply missed, she leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service. She was born on October 29, 1934, in Zachary, Louisiana, to Viola Hayes Whitley and Charley Buckner Whitley.

Alma was raised in a Christian home and was a devoted lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church of Scotlandville.

On June 10, 1962, Alma was united in marriage to Don Knighton, Jr. From this union were born two children, Minty Shyrelle Knighton and Weldon Cordell Knighton. She was also a loving and devoted grandmother to Aydon Pierce Knighton. She cherished her family and was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend.

Alma graduated from Southern University Laboratory School, earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and a Master of Education with additional graduate studies from Southern University. Alma completed further professional training at Louisiana State University, Spencer College, and Loyola University. Her career spanned teaching, supervision, consulting, higher education instruction, and educational leadership, serving students, families, and communities across multiple parishes.

Alma is survived by her daughter, Minty S. Knighton of Zachary, Louisiana, her son, Weldon C. Knighton, daughter-in-law, Petrina Johnson Knighton, and her grandson, Aydon P. Knighton, all of Allen, Texas; her sister, Bernice Whitley of Zachary, Louisiana; her brother, Sterling Whitley of Grand Rapids, Michigan; and a host of devoted nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.