Charles E. Banta

Charles E. Banta, 87, a veteran of World War II, passed away Friday, Jan. 21, 2011, at his home, surrounded by his family. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Mattie Mae Blissett Banta; and four children and their spouses, Jimmy and Dee Banta, Charlene Banta Simmons and Hillman Simmons, Linda Banta Burchfield and Billy Burchfield, and Randy and Lorraine Banta. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren, several great-grandchildren; a brother, Carroll Banta, of El Paso, Texas; and two sisters, Patricia Banta Roy, of Waggaman, and Violet Banta Babin, of Gonzales. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie and Nesida Banta; three brothers; a sister; a grandson, Michael Banta; and a great-grandson, William Burchfield. He was an ordained deacon and a member of Riverside Baptist Church. Graveside services with military honors will be held at Evergreen Memorial Park in Denham Springs on Saturday, Jan. 22, at 11:30 a.m., with the Rev. Larry Hubbard officiating. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Alzheimer's Association. The family thanks Clarity Hospice for their care during this time. Arrangements by Rabenhorst Funeral Home East.