Kyle Knighton, a gentle soul with a keen wit and a deep love for life’s quiet rhythms, passed away at the age of 66 in Washington, DC. A resident of Silver Spring, Maryland, Kyle’s journey began in Irving, Texas, where he was born to Maurice and Barbara Knighton.

Kyle attended the University of Maryland, College Park, but his true calling was found in the company of animals. For over three decades, he operated a successful pet-sitting business, becoming a trusted friend to the many cats and dogs he cared for.

Those who knew Kyle knew of his deep appreciation for music—most notably the Grateful Dead—and his love for the natural world. But the true center of his world was his wife, Joy Lazaroff. Their bond was built on the simplest and most profound moments: long walks, shared songs, and the comfort of just being together. Kyle’s compassionate spirit and sense of humor left a lasting mark on everyone he met.

Kyle joins his parents in rest. His memory will be cherished by his wife, Joy; his brothers Kevin, Kirk, and Knute; his sisters-in-law Nita and Sheila, and a loving extended family of nephews and nieces, including Shannon, Shawn, and Sheana.

The family will announce a Celebration of Life at a later time to honor Kyle’s memory. To honor Kyle’s lifelong devotion to animals, the family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be sent to Friends of Montgomery County Animals, Inc., P.O. Box 386, Germantown, MD 20875.