Born and raised in the heart of Summerville, Kimberly Knight has worked in the funeral home industry for 17 years and now serves as the managing funeral director at the Northwoods Chapel.
Experiences that Shaped The Career
But prior to the journey that led to her rewarding career as a funeral director, Knight became well-acquainted with grief and loss when, at the age of 18, she faced the tragic loss of her mother. Ten years later, she also experienced the heartbreak of losing her father, too. These pivotal moments in her life instilled in her the significance of having a compassionate funeral director. Though devastating, these personal experiences profoundly shaped her understanding of life, death and how much compassion and understanding can impact a person who is grieving.
“I knew the importance of having a funeral director with empathy and decided I wanted to minister to families in this way,” said Knight. “It is a passion of mine to serve families and minister to them at one of the most difficult times of their lives.”
Professional Path
Knight worked hard to obtain the necessary certifications so she could serve families effectively. She completed a two-year apprenticeship, during which she obtained her Funeral Director License from the SCFDA by passing the State Board and the South Carolina Laws Exam. Additionally, Knight earned her Preneed license by attending specialized classes and passing a National Board Exam. This extensive preparation and training equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide families through one of life’s most challenging times and serve the community that has been her home since childhood. She also considers the work she put into earning her certifications, especially her Preneed license, some of the greatest achievements in her career.
Career with Stuhr’s Funeral Home
Knight’s journey with the J. Henry Stuhr family began in March 2022.
“Knowing Stuhr’s reputation, I was excited and eager to continue my career in the funeral industry with them. It amazes me that the company was founded in 1865 and is still family-owned and operated.”
Since becoming the managing funeral director at the Northwoods Chapel location, Knight has been proud to serve the tri-county area and help people manage their grief with love and compassion. She has also been able to help clients navigate Stuhr’s comprehensive aftercare program, which assists with insurance, retirement, VA benefits, Social Security and Grief Support, ensuring that families have all the resources they need and their questions answered.
Life outside the industry
When Knight isn’t serving the people of Charleston, she is deeply committed to being involved in her community and church. She serves alongside her husband, Sam, who is a youth pastor at Miles Road Baptist Church. Family is at the core of her being, and she cherishes the time she spends with her husband and children, Taylor, Colton, and his wife, Summer; Garret and his wife, Selena; and her two beautiful granddaughters, Talley and Layla.
In the spirit of the family-owned connection within Stuhr Funeral Home, Knight’s daughter, Taylor, is following in her mother’s footsteps and now works with the Stuhr team as well.
Just like the rest of her team, Knight is committed to providing grieving families with unmatched compassion, care, and support throughout every step of the grieving process. Her journey in the funeral home industry is not just a career; it’s a deeper calling and an honor to walk alongside people during their most challenging times and be a beacon of light in the darkness.
Stuhr Funeral Home, a trusted name in funeral service for more than 150 years, understands that everyone grieves differently. They have the resources and experts to help you prepare for every aspect of the service. Together, they’re dedicated to providing the best and most professional care for their clients during their time of grieving and healing. For more information, stop by one of our locations in the area or contact us online.
Funeral Director Spotlight: Kimberly Knight
Born and raised in the heart of Summerville, Kimberly Knight has worked in the funeral home industry for 17 years and now serves as the managing funeral director at the Northwoods Chapel.
Experiences that Shaped The Career
“I knew the importance of having a funeral director with empathy and decided I wanted to minister to families in this way,” said Knight. “It is a passion of mine to serve families and minister to them at one of the most difficult times of their lives.”
Professional Path
Knight worked hard to obtain the necessary certifications so she could serve families effectively. She completed a two-year apprenticeship, during which she obtained her Funeral Director License from the SCFDA by passing the State Board and the South Carolina Laws Exam. Additionally, Knight earned her Preneed license by attending specialized classes and passing a National Board Exam. This extensive preparation and training equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide families through one of life’s most challenging times and serve the community that has been her home since childhood. She also considers the work she put into earning her certifications, especially her Preneed license, some of the greatest achievements in her career.
Career with Stuhr’s Funeral Home
Knight’s journey with the J. Henry Stuhr family began in March 2022.
“Knowing Stuhr’s reputation, I was excited and eager to continue my career in the funeral industry with them. It amazes me that the company was founded in 1865 and is still family-owned and operated.”
Since becoming the managing funeral director at the Northwoods Chapel location, Knight has been proud to serve the tri-county area and help people manage their grief with love and compassion. She has also been able to help clients navigate Stuhr’s comprehensive aftercare program, which assists with insurance, retirement, VA benefits, Social Security and Grief Support, ensuring that families have all the resources they need and their questions answered.
Life outside the industry
When Knight isn’t serving the people of Charleston, she is deeply committed to being involved in her community and church. She serves alongside her husband, Sam, who is a youth pastor at Miles Road Baptist Church. Family is at the core of her being, and she cherishes the time she spends with her husband and children, Taylor, Colton, and his wife, Summer; Garret and his wife, Selena; and her two beautiful granddaughters, Talley and Layla.
In the spirit of the family-owned connection within Stuhr Funeral Home, Knight’s daughter, Taylor, is following in her mother’s footsteps and now works with the Stuhr team as well.
Just like the rest of her team, Knight is committed to providing grieving families with unmatched compassion, care, and support throughout every step of the grieving process. Her journey in the funeral home industry is not just a career; it’s a deeper calling and an honor to walk alongside people during their most challenging times and be a beacon of light in the darkness.
Stuhr Funeral Home, a trusted name in funeral service for more than 150 years, understands that everyone grieves differently. They have the resources and experts to help you prepare for every aspect of the service. Together, they’re dedicated to providing the best and most professional care for their clients during their time of grieving and healing. For more information, stop by one of our locations in the area or contact us online.
New Year, New Traditions: How to Honor Loved Ones All Year Long
Honoring your loved one after they pass doesn’t have to be limited to holidays or their birthdays. Keeping their memory alive is something that you can do all year long. Staying connected can help to process grief in a positive way. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Plant a Memorial Garden
Whether you dedicate a small area inside your home or apartment or a larger section in the yard, a memorial garden is a wonderful way to remember someone you’ve lost. While you’re pruning or watering the garden, use that time to reflect on your loved one. You can include children in the gardening tasks as well.
Be Crafty
Crafts do not have to be tied to a special occasion. When you have time, or when you miss your loved one, do something. You can paint a photo, sketch a picture, create a memory book, or sculpt something. If you have children, talk to them about their feelings and encourage them to make a finger painting for the person they are missing.
Choose a Day for Honor
Dedicate a particular day each month to honoring your loved one. On that day, listen to their favorite music, watch a movie they loved, write them a letter, or just write about them. This doesn’t have to be limited to one day, but you can start a routine each month and build from there.
Light a Candle
Honoring your loved one does not need to be complicated. A simple loving gesture, such as lighting a candle each day, can be a sweet regular tribute.
Make Their Favorite Meals
Did your loved one have a favorite recipe they asked for regularly? Was your lasagna or carrot cake the must-have item? Enjoy any of these delicious items on their behalf. The simple of making a meal is a great way to show your gratitude or evoke fun memories.
Give Back
Volunteer for a cause that was important to your loved one. Did they participate in a marathon to benefit the local community? Did they help raise money for a cancer research group? Continue their passion in their name. Remember, if it’s not something you can physically do – for example, you cannot run a marathon – do not feel obligated. Instead, choose something that is within your comfort zone.
Take a Trip
Did you and your loved one take a regular trip to the beach, go on a camping trip, or escape everyday life at another favorite destination? If you can, revisit, share memories, and continue to enjoy the location. Traditions do not have to stop after your loved one is gone. It might be difficult without them, but it’s okay to continue your vacation traditions.
Create a Memory Jar
Create a shared space, or make a box or jar to deposit memories or feelings of gratitude that pop up during the day. Write them on strips of paper and read them when you want to look back. If you have children, they can add to it whenever they are dealing with their grief.
Start a Legacy Project
These take time, but they will keep your loved one’s memory alive for years. Consider creating a scholarship in their name at their alma mater or at a local high school. If you are up to the task, write their life story and send it to family members who might be interested.
Whatever you choose, feel free to change it when you want. There are no rules when it comes to honoring your loved one year-round.