Leta Mae Banther

Leta Martin Banther, born on January 5, 1943, at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, went home to be with her Lord and Savior, on November 2, 2025, after a life lived with grace, love, and unwavering faith. She was the cherished daughter of the late Clay Martin and Genevieve (Luke) Goodrich.

On January 2, 1982, she married the love of her life, Jim Banther, beginning a beautiful journey that spanned over four decades. Together, they built a family grounded in love, faith, and service to others.

She was a devoted mother to her beloved children: the late Mark Gibson, Lisa Pitts, Flint Banther (wife Melissa), Mandy Oberton (husband Jason), Christina Brown, and Casey Banther. Her joy multiplied with the arrival of 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply.

She is survived by her sisters, Mozelle Beaver and JeanE Martin; stepbrothers Nick and Mike Goodrich; stepsister Jenny Luebbers; and many nieces and nephews who adored her. Her family was her heart, and she loved them with a gentle strength that left an indelible mark on each of their lives.

She was a woman of remarkable talents and creativity. She found joy in sewing and painting, pouring her heart into each piece she crafted. Her talents were matched only by her commitment to serving others. A caring and detail-oriented professional, she worked as a Social Security claims representative and later dedicated several years as a tax preparer in multiple states.

Faith was the foundation of her life. She was a passionate follower of Christ, leading Christian home fellowship groups for 12 years across three different churches. She touched countless lives with her wisdom, love, and steadfast faith—always teaching others what it meant to walk in the light of Jesus.

Her service extended beyond the church, as she played a key role in the local chapter of “Sleep in Heavenly Peace,” a volunteer group dedicated to safe and warm beds for children in need. It is safe to say that hundreds of children will go to sleep tonight under one of Leta’s handmade blankets. Her compassion was tangible, and her legacy will continue through the many lives she uplifted.

Those who knew her will remember her gentle spirit, her subtle sense of humor, and the way she never met a stranger. Her faith was evident in every conversation, every act of kindness, and every moment she lived. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and grace that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

A celebration of Leta’s life will be held by her Agee Fellowship Church family on Saturday, November 22 at 3:00 p.m. She will be deeply missed, but we rejoice knowing she is now at peace in the arms of her Creator. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” – Matthew 25: