Robert "Robo" McKnight

Robert "Robo" McKnight passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at the age of 53. He was the beloved son of the late Willie McKnight and the late Odessa Burrell McKnight. He was also preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Sidney and Louise Burrell, paternal grandparents Alfred and Eloise McKnight, and brother Willie “Wing Ding” Burrell.

Robert’s life was an inspiration of love and concern for his family and friends, and service to others. Always smiling, always kind and friendly. His smile and presence lit up every room he entered. His life was rich with friends and family. The word “stranger” was not in his vocabulary. He offered a helping hand, or an encouraging word whenever needed.

Robert attended TC Robinson High School and was a self-taught automotive mechanic under the guidance of his father, the well-known “Mack”. Through this training, he owned and operated McKnight’s Tire and General Repair Shop. He was an entrepreneur, a hard worker and wore many hats. Robert currently owned and operated Asheville Print Shop and RCM Sparkling Services.

As the evening shadow covers this compassionate life, Robert leaves to cherish many fond memories, his devoted companion of over 25 years, his right hand, and the love of his life Charla Smith. His legacy will be forever cherished also by his children Chanara Porter, Roshana McKnight, and Rashad McKnight, brother Colia “Tony” McKnight (Tammie), sisters Ariana Burrell (Ricky), and Brenda  Robinson (Tyrone), 5 grandchildren, Brother In law Carlos Smith (Lisa), special nephew Lil Los, godmother Michele Evans, special cousin Edward Gaines Sr., and not to forget his 2 beloved furry babies Alberta and Leon. Also left to mourn his sudden passing are Aunt Emily, his Alabama family, his Shiloh Gaines family, his extended Shiloh Community family and friends, a host of nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

His passing has left a void in many hearts that only time can heal. He was a beautiful soul with a big heart and big smile. We thank GOD for the time HE allowed us to share with Robo. He will forever be in our hearts.

A Funeral Service to honor the life of Robert will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025, at the Conference Center on the campus of AB-Tech (16 Fernihurst Dr.) at 3pm. He will lie in state one hour prior to the service. Viewing will be held at Avery's Memorial Chapel on Friday, June 6, 2025, from 12pm-7pm. Immediately following the service, the funeral procession will drive through the Shiloh community to honor the life Robo lived, and the impact he had on the community. The service will be live streamed on Avery's Memorial Chapel's Facebook page.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Robert "Robo" McKnight, please visit our floral store.