Richard Stika, the longest-serving leader of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Knoxville, died Feb. 17, 2026. He was 68.
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Stika earned a business degree from St. Louis University before entering the priesthood. He rose through the ranks of the church in his hometown, serving at several parishes and within the local chancery. In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as the third bishop of Knoxville, a role he held for 14 years.
During his tenure, Stika oversaw the construction of the Cathedral of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. However, his leadership faced intense scrutiny following allegations of administrative mismanagement and claims that he suppressed reports of sexual misconduct. He served as a religious leader for over a decade before his career ended amid these controversies.
In June 2023, Stika resigned at the request of Pope Francis, citing serious health complications including heart disease and neuropathy. Following his departure, he lived in retirement while the Vatican continued to review the diocese's financial and personnel records. He passed away nearly three years after stepping down from what was the longest episcopal tenure in the history of the Knoxville diocese."