James William Kight, III, known to friends and family as Bill, Dad and BB, passed away on September 5, 2023, at the age of 88.

He was born on May 24, 1935, in Montgomery, Alabama and raised by a strong mother after his father passed away at a young age.  She encouraged him to become an independent person with a strong work ethic, a love for life and to accept the good in everyone.

Bill graduated from Sydney Lanier High School in the Class of 1953. He attended Auburn University, where he earned a degree in Industrial Engineering Management. During his time at Auburn, he joined Sigma Chi Fraternity where he made many life-long friendships and demonstrated leadership skills.

While serving his country in the United States Navy, he learned his marksmanship skills and earned the title of sharpshooter and was promoted to Lieutenant Commander. It was during this time that he exhibited the same dedication and precision that would become hallmarks of his life.

Bill’s career, which was his passion, spanned 65 years in the paper industry, 40 of which were spent owning and operating his own companies from which he never actually retired.  He was a dedicated entrepreneur and businessman earning many awards (Louisiana Small Business Award and Riverton Award).  He believed that all obstacles could be solved. (“no” or “can’t” were not in his vocabulary).  He truly worked to develop people to their greatest potential.  His commitment to his employees and customers left an indelible mark on the business world.

As an integral part of the community, he was a devoted member of Northminster Church, where his faith was a guiding light in his life. He worked to make his community a better place by offering his time and service to the American Red Cross, Young Business Professional Mentor Program through Louisiana Tech and Community Partners, Mission Trips to Cuba, Camp Quality, Regions Bank Board, Glenwood Regional Hospital Board, and Strauss Theatre. He instilled in his children the importance of giving back to others and not expecting anything in return.

Bill had so many diverse interests some of which included his love for working outside in his yard, collecting coins and stamps (which he started at age 5), as well as racing MGs. His active lifestyle included running, tennis and working out with his friends at a local gym. He loved eating out with family and friends, especially crawfish and crabs. Family vacations and business travel, having visited 81 countries, were something that he cherished.

Bill was incredibly proud of his children and grandchildren. He devoted quality time to teaching and guiding them, leaving them with invaluable life lessons and memories.   He never tired of the time he spent with his kids.   What we will remember most about him is his energy and “Love for Life”.  Also, we cannot forget his devoted and loving companion…his dog, Mattie…his little buddy.

James William Kight, III, we will forever miss you but what brings us much comfort is knowing that you have lived life to the fullest.  We will always remember your sense of humor with the endless jokes and stories that you so enjoyed sharing with us.  His memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

James William Kight, III is preceded in death by his Dad, James William Kight, Jr., and Mom, Anne Rebecca Kight Brown and daughter, Jane Lacey Kight.

Survivors include his wife, Carol Koontz Kight, and children Anne Rebecca Kight Bougie and husband Paul, Mary Louden Kight, Margaret Katherine Kight Rahman, and James William Kight IV (Will) and wife Kristina.  Grandchildren William, Ryan, Noah and Jonah, Zeke, Amelia, Sarah, and Eli also survive him.

Additional survivors are his Brother-in-Law: Robert Koontz and wife, Linda as well as nieces Karen Harris, Amanda Brasher and nephew Rob Koontz.

A memorial service to celebrate Bill’s life will be held on Monday, September 11th at 1pm at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 1901 Lexington Avenue, Monroe, LA with visitation from 11 am until service time.  Services are under the care and direction of Kilpatrick Funeral Home, Monroe, LA.

Pallbearers will be Jerry Thomas, DeSha Sims, Robert Koontz, Daren Fuller, Chuck Smart and Paul Bougie.  Honorary pallbearers are Bill Krutzer, Bill Copeland, Felix Steinbrecher, Brad Bourgeois, Bill Doris and all of Bill’s devoted employees.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northminster Church, Camp Quality or the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.kilpatrickfuneralhomes.com.

Kilpatrick Funeral Homes ~ Monroe

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