Graveside Services for Reta Mae Banks, 85, Lawrence, will be 11am, Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at Oak Hill Cemetery. A visitation will be 6:30-7:30 Monday, at Rumsey-Yost Funeral Home.
She died February 13, 2023, at her home.
Our Sweet Aunt Reta was called home to be reunited with her family on February 13, 2023.
Reta Mae Banks was born on March 12, 1937 in Lawrence Kansas to John Neal and Luella Banks.
Reta grew up in rural Douglas County where she was truly a country girl. Always helping feed the animals, working in the garden and gathering eggs from the chicken coup on the family farm. Her chores were not limited to the outdoors, as she would also help prepare meals and make her specialty, fresh pies for dessert.
She graduated from Liberty Memorial High School in 1955 and from there she went on to work in banking. She held many other positions throughout her lifetime, but the one she enjoyed was with the First Student Bus Barn. She was a secondary helper for kids with handicap needs for entering and exiting the bus. She would also help with trips out of town for away games. She left the Bus Barn in 2018 at the age of 81.
She was beautiful inside and out, always giving and caring to all who met her. She would help anyone in need without a second thought.
She dabbled in projects from crocheting, gardening as she loved her flowers, and even tried her hand at upholstery. She had many talents and hobbies and continued to make her doilies just before her passing. She will be missed by all that loved her.
Reta is survived by her nieces Diana Huseby (Richard Hird), Mary Banks, Sharon Banks Watson (Doug) and many great nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents John Neal and Luella Banks, Brother John Banks, Sister Betty Otto.
There will be a visitation on Monday February 20 from 6:30 – 7:30 at Rumsey Yost Funeral Home.
A graveside service will be held Tuesday February 21, at 11:00 at Oak Hill Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers Reta has requested that contributions be sent to the Humane Society.
Rita’s family would like to express their appreciation for Rita’s team at Gentiva Hospice. Diana and Richard thank you also personally for all your help we couldn’t have done it without you.
