Roberta “Berta” Eugenia Knight

Roberta "Berta" Eugenia Knight, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 18, 2025, at her home in Benedict, Kansas. Born on December 12, 1972, in Wichita, Kansas, Berta lived a life rich in love, service, and commitment to her family and community.
Berta was the daughter of Amelia M. (Simmons) Knight, who preceded her in death. Growing up surrounded by her loving family, Berta cherished her siblings: Teala Knight, Kimberly Harbison, and Trena Ford, as well as her late brothers, Manuel Martinez and Jay Martinez. She was a nurturing presence in the lives of her numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins, who will forever hold dear the memories they shared with her.
Berta graduated from West High School in Wichita, Kansas, and went on to pursue a career in law enforcement. With an unwavering dedication to serving her community, she graduated from The Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center in Hutchinson, Kansas, in 2010. Over the span of 24 years, Berta held various positions in law enforcement, culminating in her role as Chief of Police in Erie, Kansas, where she served for two impactful years. Her professional journey also included important contributions at the Neosho County Sheriff's Office, Chanute Police Department, and most recently, the Wilson County Sheriff's Office. Berta’s commitment to her work was a testament to her character and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Berta was not only dedicated to her career but also had a profound passion for gardening. She found immense joy in tending to her plants and canning the vegetables from her bountiful garden. However, the love of her life was undoubtedly her family. Berta’s heart was filled with pride and joy for her children: Kayla and husband Kevan Lair, Kara Bennon, Doc and wife Carrie O'Neal, Jeremy and wife Megan Ewan, Laken and husband Brandon Littlejohn, Jayci and husband Sebastian Rajas, and Colton Harris. She was a devoted grandmother, showering her grandchildren with love and affection. Her legacy lives on through her beautiful grandchildren: Remington Daniels, Amelia Daniels, Charlye Aday, Ace Aday, Virgil Lair, Masen Sutton, Ruby Brennon, Rylie Brennon, Adalynn Harmon, Dominic O'Neal, Adrian O’Neal, Caden Eads, James Ewan, Bo Chism, Hadleigh Chism, Sawyer Littlejohn, Kace Littlejohn, Bindi Stanislaus, and Brittyn Harris.
In her personal life, Berta was known for her warm spirit, kindness, and unwavering loyalty. She shared a deep and loving relationship with Mike Collins, the love of her life, who supported and cherished her throughout their time together.
As we remember Berta, we celebrate the incredible impact she made on the lives of everyone who had the privilege to know her. Her compassion, strength, and dedication to both her family and her community will continue to inspire those she leaves behind.
Berta is survived by her children, grandchildren, siblings, and a wide circle of family and friends who will miss her dearly. The love and warmth she brought into their lives will forever be cherished.
Funeral Services will be held at the Erie Federated Church, 202 S. Main St, Erie, Kansas 66733 on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Memorials can be made in Berta’s name to Emprise Bank’s Adopt-A-Child Program in Chanute, Kansas.
As we mourn the loss of Roberta "Berta" Eugenia Knight, we are reminded of the abundant love she shared and the legacy she leaves behind in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten. To Infinity and Beyond!!