Robert (Bob) Franklin Banning of Lawrence, KS passed away surrounded by family after a brief illness on Friday, October 31, 2025. He was born on November 28, 1947 in Columbia, S.C. to Floyd Maurice and Thelma Banning. He grew up in a loving military family and lived in many places as a child, both stateside and overseas.
He attended the University of Georgia and graduated with a degree in Forest Management. The year before he graduated, he and a friend started a “painting business.” At the first (and only) house they painted, he met the love of his life, Martha. They were married on February 6, 1972. At their wedding, they each used a candle to light one unity candle. Many years later, they talked about how much that unity candle came to represent the love they had for each other.
Bob knew he wanted to be in the military from an early age and had a deep love for his country. He was an active duty service member for 25 years, retiring from the Army as a Lt. Colonel. He then worked for 15 years for the Department of Defense. Bob’s family was his greatest passion. His love, generosity, and guidance provided the anchor for his family. He loved family dinner gatherings and playing games afterward. Bob also enjoyed fishing, playing disc golf, giving gifts, helping friends, and watching Christmas Hallmark movies. Bob was an active member of Lone Star Church of the Brethren where church friends became part of his extended family.
Bob was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife, Martha, and four children Jennifer White (Brian), Ryan Banning, Joshua Banning, and Meg Banning (Casey). He is also survived by three wonderful grandchildren who cherished their Papa, Ellie White, Lena White, and Silas White. Other survivors include three siblings, John Banning (Nancy), Debbie Bower (Jay), and Mike Banning (Barbara).
Funeral services will be held at 1:00 PM November 15, 2025 at Grace Presbyterian Church in Lawrence, KS. The Banning family will visit with friends and family after the service in the church foyer. Burial will follow at 3:30 PM in the Oak Hill Cemetery,1605 Oak Hill Avenue, Lawrence, KS.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to Operation Homefront (https://operationhomefront.org/), which provides critical financial support to military families.
May love rest gently in your hearts, and prayers support your healing. I remember Bob and your family so fondly. Keeping you in prayer.
Bob was a wonderful friend, dad and husband. He will be missed by so many. Bob was very efficient at so many things and had such a great work ethic. Anything he started he would not stop until he finished. He was sweet and considerate. This was such a shock to everyone.
To Martha and family — I am so sorry for your loss. I have no words but only hope the strength of your family will lift you up through this time and that you will find your own peace and strength in all of this.