Grace Marie "Ray" Dart

Grace Ray Banks-Dart, 97, of Burnsville, N.C. passed away at her home on March 17th, 2026.

Born on July 28,1928 in Yancey Co to Frank & Maude Ray, Grace was recognized at an early age for her intelligence and eagerness to learn. She attended Warren Wilson College in her early years then returned to Burnsville to marry the love her of life Ezekiel M. (Jake) Banks and raise their four children along with setting forth on a path of community development. Grace was instrumental in the development of the Yancey Merchants Association, Chamber of Commerce and Credit Bureau. She served her state in several different positions during her many years at the license plate agency. She took great pride in Burnsville and loved to tell the story about the first Christmas Parade held in Burnsville as well as the Craft Fair under her leadership. Grace was an avid reader and enjoyed traveling the country. She adored her family and cherished their time together.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Kenneth Ray; husband, Jake Banks; daughter, Marica Banks Eppler; daughter-in-law, Bobbie Banks and second husband, Wayne Dart.

She is survived by three sons: Tracy Banks of Burnsville, Gordon (Rosemary) Banks of Burnsville, Richard (Rhonda) Banks of Unicoi, TN.

Grandchildren include Jennifer McNeill, Kimberly Reece, Zeke Banks, Ashley Banks, Adam Banks, Nicky Banks, Dylan Banks, Katie Barrett; 8 great-grandchildren along with many other family members and friends that will miss her very much.

A memorial service will be held on March 24th with visitation from 3-4pm with the service following at Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in her memory to the American Cancer Society.

Special thanks to the wonderful care given to Grace by Kim Allen (Caregiver), and Blake Banks (Great Granddaughter).

Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Banks-Dart family.