Dixie Lee Banks

Dixie Lee Banks, daughter of the late George W. Miller and Winnifred (McKinney) Miller, was born October 10, 1938 in Arlington, Missouri. As a young girl, Dixie grew up in Hooker, Missouri and graduated from Waynesville High School with the Class of 1956. On October 17, 1959, Dixie was united in marriage to Don A. Banks in Vista, San Diego County, California. They shared three children Bill, Chris, and Michael and many wonderful memories before Don preceded Dixie in death. Early in her working years, Dixie worked as a rodeo barrel racer/horse rider before she entered the United States Marine Corps. She served her country faithfully until her honorable discharge. After her discharge from the military, Dixie worked as an elementary school nurse, American Red Cross Disaster Relief Specialist and a Pulaski County Reserve Deputy. She had a servant’s heart and enjoyed helping anyone that she could. Dixie was a lifetime member of the DAV (Disabled American Veterans), REACT (Radio Emergency Associated Communication Team) and Mark Twain Chapter President. In her spare time, Dixie enjoyed sewing and was an avid St. Louis Cardinals baseball fan. But the one thing that gave her the most pleasure was working with horses and riding. She was interested in anything she could find on cowboys. Dixie loved her family tremendously and enjoyed spending time with them whenever she could, especially the grandchildren. Dixie passed away Monday, March 11, 2024 in the Phelps Health Hospital of Rolla, Missouri having attained the age of 85 years. She will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by all those that knew and loved her. She leaves to cherish her memory, her three children: Bill Banks (Lora) of St. Robert, MO, Chris Banks (Denise) of Republic, MO, and Michael Banks of St. Robert, MO; eight grandchildren: Meagan Kut (Eric) of Marlboro, NJ, Cody Banks of St. Robert, MO, Leslie Banks of St. Robert, MO, Nicole Banks of Republic, MO, Christopher Banks of Republic, MO, Ashley Pool of St. Robert, MO, Sydney Banks of Springfield, MO, and Matthew Banks of St. Robert, MO; several great grandchildren; one brother: Billy Miller (Vergena) of Waynesville, MO; several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Dixie was preceded in death by two brothers: James and Gerold; and one sister: Mary. Funeral services were held at 12:30 p.m. Monday, March 18, 2024 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert with Pastor Danny Graves officiating. Also speaking was Dixie’s son, Michael Banks. The songs “Amazing Grace”, “Glory, Glory Hallelujah” and the “Marine Corps Hymn” were played. Serving as escorts were Cody Banks, Christopher Banks, Matthew Banks, Bill Banks, Chris Banks, and Michael Banks. Burial with military honors followed in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery of Waynesville with military honors being provided by the Missouri Honors Team. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Dixie Banks and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville/St. Robert.

Dixie Lee Banks

October 10, 1938 - March 11, 2024