Retha Jean Banks

Retha Jean Banks, of Bull Shoals, passed away February 23, 2026, in Yellville, at the age of 78.

She was born September 19, 1947, in Cassville, MO, the daughter of Norma Craft. On June 5, 1967, she married the love of her life, Randell D. Banks, in Amarillo, Texas beginning a devoted partnership that spanned nearly six decades.

Retha began married life as a proud military wife, following Randell’s service from Okinawa to Cheyenne, WY. After concluding their military chapter, they returned to Amarillo before ultimately settling in Arkansas, where they became owners and operators of the Bull Shoals Country Inn.

After selling the motel, she continued serving her community through her work as a dispatcher for the Marion County Police Office. She later worked for the State of Arkansas as an administrative assistant.

Retha was especially known for the friendships she cultivated and the warmth she shared. In recent years, she found great joy as a member of the Bull Shoals Dam Knitters, where her talent for knitting and purling was matched only by her loyalty and quick wit. The circle of women she gathered with became not just a hobby group, but a cherished community.

She will be remembered for her humor, her steadfast devotion to her family, and the love she stitched into every life she touched.

Retha is survived by her husband, Randell D. Banks of Bull Shoals, Arkansas; daughter, Kimberly (Jeff) Damaske of Little Elm, Texas; sons, Jay Banks of Forsyth, Missouri, and KC (Angie) Banks of Gassville, Arkansas; grandchildren, Brandon, Kelly, Sarah (Matt), Emily, and Colton; and great-grandchildren, Atlas and Vivian.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Norma Llams.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Kirby & Family Funeral Home Chapel in Bull Shoals, with Heather Marsalis, Celebrant, officiating.