Clifford Lewis Knighton was born in Dawson, Georgia on April 30, 1950.  She was the beloved daughter of the late Governor Lewis and Era Gaines Lewis.

She received her formal education in the Terrell County School System, including Carter High School  where she graduated in the class of 1966.

At a very early age, she accepted Christ as her personal Savior and maintained her faith as she journeyed through life.

She was united in holy matrimony to Charlie Knighton. Their union stood the test of time and they were blessed with three loving children.  As a wife and mother,  "Ikey" as she was affectionately called, was constant in her efforts to care for the needs of her family through her employment as a factory worker and an employee of Piedmont Plant Company of Albany.  She firmly believed in working hard for what you want and always being willing to do the right thing.

"Ikey" was a good natured, generous lady with a big heart and a pleasure to be around.  She loved unconditionally, enjoyed the simple pleasures of life, treasured  spending time with family and friends, and delighted in helping others—never asking anything in return.  Her love, friendship, and encouraging words will always be remembered.

On September 1, 2019, Ikey was called to eternal rest.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Charlie Knighton; her son, Kentrell Knighton; and her sister, Earnestine Lewis-Thomas.

Loving memories will be forever cherished by her children, Jacqueline Knighton and Travis Knighton of Albany, GA; grandchildren, Latoya Zackery and Montrell Zackery of Albany, GA; great grandchildren, Javorie Gilyard, Jr., Jy'Asjah Gilyard, Emperist Zackery, and Ny'Geria Zackery of Albany, GA; siblings, Ethel Payne of Chicago, IL and Gladys (Johnny) Williams of Lee County, GA; nephews and nieces, Alfonzo Lewis, Sr. and Jesse Bronner of Albany, GA ad Menita Lewis Taylor of Detroit, MI; a long-time friend and companion, A. B. Williams of Albany, GA; and a very special friend, Whitney Barber who was like a daughter.