Jeanette (Riley) Banks

Jeanette Riley Banks, age 91, of Morehead, passed away Wednesday, June 12, 2019, at her home with family by her side.

Born May 15, 1928, in Buckhorn, Kentucky, she was a daughter of the late Elden and Nettie Deaton Riley.  In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Harlan Clay Banks, who passed August 30, 2004; two brothers, Victor Riley and John Riley; and six sisters, Vesta Gabbard, Sadie Rutherford, Grace Riley, Chevie Matthews, Bertha Mae Riley; and an infant sister.

Mrs. Banks is survived by two daughters—Grace Little and husband Dennis, and Jenny Banks Adkins, all of Morehead; six grandchildren—Michael Little and wife Crystal; Christie Conn and husband Jeff; Brian Little and wife Kari; Jacob Little and fiancée Nakota; Jonathan Adkins; and Ashley Adkins—two great granddaughters, Aleah and Bristol; one nephew and two nieces.

Jeanette graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Health and Physical Education. She began her teaching career in a one-room schoolhouse in Buckhorn, KY and then taught for two years at Frenchburg High School in Menifee County.

Jeanette began her long-time career at Rowan County Senior High School with her first 33 years of service being that of an educator and volleyball, track and field, and cross-country coach. During the 31 years Mrs. Banks coached volleyball for the Vikings, she had 511 wins and only 32 losses.   Coach Banks led her teams to the state tournament 9 out of 11 years that a tournament was held. Mrs. Banks retired from teaching and continued her career as a member of the classified staff at the high school until she retired at the age of 85.

In 2010, Mrs. Banks was inducted into the first class of the Rowan County Senior High School Alumni Hall of Fame.  During the ceremony, she was described as someone whose “character and professionalism as well as her dedication to her students and fellow teachers have exemplified honesty, a strong work ethic and a willingness to always go above and beyond what is required.” 

Mrs. Banks’ generosity and kind, caring spirit influenced countless young people and colleagues over the many years that she taught and coached. She was kind, humble and great all at the same time. She had a spirit that shined through and made everyone who was fortunate enough to know her feel valued, special, and loved.  Mrs. Banks leaves a legacy of influence that will continue for generations.

Although these are all great accomplishments and impressive achievements, nothing was more important to Nanny than her children and grandchildren. She loved them with a fierceness and pureness that could not be matched. She showered them with a kind of love and support that was indescribable. She always said that she spoiled them “in a good way.”

Her character and integrity are forever instilled in her family’s hearts.

Funeral services will be conducted at 3 p.m. Saturday, June 15, 2019, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals Memorial Chapel with Pastor Mark Caldwell officiating.  Following the service, Jeanette will rest beside her husband at the Banks Family Cemetery on the family farm at 85 Mullins-Banks Road in Morehead.

Grandsons will serve as pallbearers.  Honorary pallbearers will be Sue Ison and Debbie Howes. 

Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Friday, June 14, 2019, at Northcutt & Son Home for Funerals, 400 Fraley Drive, Morehead, KY 40351.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Jeanette Banks Memorial Scholarship Fund at any US Bank. 

View memorial tribute or sign guestbook at www.northcuttandson.com

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