Richard's name was also spelt, Knevett, Knevitt and Knivet. He was born London, Middlesex.

He married Helen, also known as Ellen, Harding in 1556. She was the daughter of a William Harding, a wealthy London mercer and Surrey landowner. The marriage is believed to have taken place at Beechworthcastle, Surrey, England.

Richard was a messenger and envoy from 1541 under his half-cousin, Sir Henry Knyvett. He remained on the continent during the final years of the reign of Henry VIII. He was was evidently out of favor with the Duke of Somerset, protector of the realm during the minority of Edward VI. Somerset sold his house in London as part of crown collections. He died at Westminster November 1, 1559.