Melvin Earl Knight, Jr. (Butch), 73, a lifelong resident of Ruckersville, Va. died suddenly on Thursday, December 22, 2022. He was born on December 10, 1949.

Butch was a member of the U. S. Armed Services, having honorably served with the National Guard. Butch also served his community by being a faithful member of the Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Dept. for most of his adult life. While with the RVFD, he served as chief for many years. The fire dept. was his passion.

He was predeceased by his father, Earl Knight, Sr. and brothers James Lawrence Knight and Allen Baugher. Butch’s late mother and step-father were Sarah Fort Baugher and Harry Baugher.

Butch is survived by his partner, Bonnie Shifflett. Other survivors are son, Shannon Knight (Cheryl); sisters, Diane Farish (Oscar), Della Wilt (Johnny), Mary Jane Oliver (Michael); brothers, Frank Baugher (friend Derek), Richard Baugher (Susan), Ralph Baugher (friend Kay), and Wesley Baugher (Debbie). He is also survived by Amy and Jason Lawson, who were like his children.

Butch will be sorely missed; we’ll always remember his love of NASCAR and his meticulousness about his vehicles. He was an avid hunter and fisherman.

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am on Tuesday, December 27, 2022 at Preddy Funeral Home in Madison, Va. Interment will be in Ruckersville Community Cemetery. The family will receive friends one hour before the service, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at the funeral home.

Contributions can be made to the Ruckersville Volunteer Fire Department, P. O. Box 789, Ruckersville, Va. 22968.