Cochran - Elton Franklin Knighton, age 86, passed away Monday, August 17, 2020 in Bryant Nursing Center, surrounded by his family. Graveside funeral services will be held Wednesday, August 19, 2020, at 10:00 A.M. in Pulaski-Bleckley Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Elton, born in Dodge County, GA, had lived most of his life in Cochran. He was the son of the late Benjamin N. and Sadie Roland Knighton and was preceded in death by his brothers, Melton Knighton, Nelson Knighton, Bennie Knighton and Joe Knighton and his sisters, Bessie K. (Shorty) Little, Irene K. (Jack) Johnson, Nellie K. Roberts and Brenda Knighton. He was retired from Robins Air Force Base, an avid gardener, enjoyed sharing his garden with family and friends and his greatest joys were his church and his family. Mr. Elton was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and brother.  He had a strong Christian faith and placed his life in the Lord's hands. He was a member and deacon at Lakeview Baptist Church where he spent a lot of his time doing "behind the scenes" work.

Survivors include his wife of 68 years, Martha Faye Knighton of Cochran; his children, Jerry Knighton, Cathy (Ricky) Thornton, Carolyn Tedders and Mike (Tina) Knighton of Cochran and Sue (Tony) Yearty of Chester; his brother Ray (JoAnn) Knighton of Cochran,  his sisters, Opal K. Mullis of Cochran and Claudia K. (Kenneth) Ellington of Montrose;  many grandchildren, great grandchildren, beloved nieces and nephews.

The family is at 123 Lucas Rd, Cochran and will greet friends after the service Wednesday at Pulaski-Bleckley Memorial Gardens.