Bobby Banning

Bobby Harland Banning, 79, of Dilley, TX passed away peacefully November 12, 2016.

Bobby was born June 26, 1937 in Woodward, Texas.  He was the third child of John L. Banning and Lennis Ridge Banning.  Upon graduation from Dilley High School in 1955 he joined the US Navy and became a certified Navy Electrician at the age of 18 serving in the Pacific Theater on the USS Walker.  He served in the US Navy for 8 years. 

Upon discharge, he returned to Dilley where he worked with his Father as a building contractor before joining South Texas Telephone which later became Valley Telephone Cooperative.  He served Valley Telephone for 37 years eventually rising to the position of Manager of the North District.

In 1959 Bobby married the love of his life, Vanetta Laster Banning.  They were married 57 years upon his death.  From this union they had two sons. John Earl Banning and Mark Steven Banning.

Bobby was a member and board member of First Assembly of God in Dilley, Texas where he and Vanetta, served faithfully and provided a musical combination that blessed congregations for decades.  Bobby was an exceptional guitarist, influenced by the likes of Chet Atkins, Merle Travis and Les Paul.  His love of the guitar began at an early age and continued throughout his life.  Even in his later years he studied new styles and approaches as he pushed his ability and love of music forward. 

Bobby is survived by his loving wife, Vanetta.  John and Carrin Banning of Happy Jack, AZ. Mark and Gina Banning of Dilley, TX.  The joys of his life, granddaughters Jessica Leigh Banning of San Marcos, TX; Carly Vanetta Banning and McKenna Lynn Banning of Happy Jack, AZ; Grandson Ryan Gray of Dilley, TX; Brother Raymond Banning of Conroe, TX; Sister Brenda Harland and husband Benny of Jourdanton, TX; and a large loving family. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother Ronald David Banning.

Bobby loved life and always looked for the positive in everything.  He was faithful and encouraging to all.  He loved his family, friends and community. 

A celebration of Bobby’s life will be held at Lighthouse Church in Dilley, TX Saturday November 19, 2016 at 2:00pm.  Internment to immediately follow at The Dilley Cemetery.

There will be no visitation at the Hurley Funeral Home prior to service.

Services are under the arrangement of Hurley Funeral Home 608 East Trinity St. Pearsall, Texas 78061.