Barbara Banks

Barbara Babbitt Banks, 88, of Tallahassee, Florida, passed away at home on January 1, 2021, following a determined recovery, but ultimate decline from a car accident in May of 2019. During this lengthy journey, with her comic sense of humor, she would remind us all to wear our seatbelt, even for a ride down our driveway to get the mail.

She was born on August 15, 1932, in Palatka, Florida, to Everett and Olivette Biggs Babbitt. She never met a stranger and made friends wherever she went with her quick wit, often dry and oftentimes direct. Barbara loved planting flowers in her flowerbeds and was very interested in wildflowers and native plants. She loved feeding and watching birds, and was proud to see migrating birds stop by for a visit. Barbara loved traveling and especially loved Yellowstone National Park. She was a watercolorist and participated in many art classes.

A member of Bradfordville First Baptist Church, she was active in her beloved Kay Williams Sunday School class. Barbara continued to gather yearly with their friends from Jerry’s retirement group, the Fishheads, A champion of anyone in need, Barbara was quick to help, in her own fitting way.

She is preceded in death by husband, FG “Jerry” Banks; her brother, Eddie Babbitt; son-in-law, Dennis Boyle; and granddaughter, Megan Kraft. She is survived by her sister, Edith Horvath (Carl); and her children: Melanie Kraft (Terry), Robin Boyle, and Tim Banks (Sue). She is survived by grandchildren: Kelly, Sean, Keith, Nathan (Renee), and Justin Kraft (Brittany), Ryan Boyle and Elizabeth Johnson (Craig), and several great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will not be held due to COVID. Barbara and Jerry’s ashes will be interred in Georgetown, Florida, at a later date. Contributions may be made to Bradfordville First Baptist Church, Big Bend Hospice, or Second Harvest Food Bank.