Dennis Thomas Knighton, 87, of Festus died Dec. 23, 2024, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mr. Knighton was a member of the First Baptist Church of Festus-Crystal City since 1946. He served in the U.S. Air Force from 1954 to 1958 and was a member of the American Legion 253. He retired from Monsanto in St. Louis, where he worked in finances and accounting. Born Dec. 31, 1936, in Festus, he was the son of the late Hallie (Huskey) and Leslie Knighton.
He is survived by two sons: Michael (Lisa Miller) Knighton of Jackson and Brian (Pam) Knighton of Potosi; a sister: Sue (Glen) Wright of Festus; four grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by three siblings: Donald Knighton, Darlene Knighton and Becky Knighton.
Visitation is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. until services at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 31, at Vinyard Funeral Home, 616 W. Main St., in Festus, officiated by Pastor Glen Wright. Burial with full military honors will follow in the National Cemetery at Jefferson Barracks. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home.