Edward Banta

(From Lockwood Funeral Chapel)

James “Edward” Banta, 94 years, 8 months, & 2 days of Golden City, MO, passed on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at home surrounded by his family.

Edward was born on March 28, 1928, near Dudenville, MO, to Jim and Lela (White) Banta. He was the oldest of two sons.

Edward and his younger brother, Kenneth, were raised in the Red Oak community where the family attended Red Oak Methodist Church. He was saved there at the age of fifteen. Edward graduated in 1947 from Lockwood High School where he had played basketball and football, and made many lifelong friendships.

On October 31, 1948, Edward was united in marriage to Dorma Bowles at Round Grove Baptist Church. They were married seventy-four years and one month. To this union, three children were born: Debra, Jerry, and Kathryn.

Edward and Dorma began their life in the Lockwood community until Edward was drafted to the Korean War in 1952. He took his basic training at Fort Ord in California before being stationed at Eielson Air Force Base near Fairbanks, Alaska. There, Edward achieved the rank of Corporal, earned the Good Conduct Medal as he served in the 78th Tank Company 4th Infantry.

Upon returning home, Edward and Dorma purchased the family farm near Golden City, MO. He and their son, Jerry, milked cows, tended cattle, and farmed together throughout his lifetime.

Edward enjoyed riding horses and taking trail rides. Edward and Dorma attended many parades with their team and wagon where they were awarded many trophies. The team and wagon also entertained many children at the Baptist Hill Church Camp. For many years, Edward’s daily routine included riding his horses to check cattle.

Edward’s other favorite activities included playing pitch, bird hunting, helping others, and sharing his infectious smile and hospitality.

In later years, Edward and Dorma enjoyed traveling on bus tours while making friends wherever they went. Edwards greatest joy in life was his wife, his children, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren.

Edward was a member of the First Baptist Church of Lockwood where he served as a deacon since 1989.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents, Jim and Lela Banta; his brother, Kenneth Banta and wife Marietta; and his grandson, Tayler Anderson.

Edward is survived by his wife, Dorma Banta; two daughters, Debra Stefan and husband Paul and Kathy Kerr and husband JD; one son, Jerry Banta and wife Connie; nine grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren: Brian Banta and wife Sarina and children, Brayden and Jesse: Jason Banta and wife Leslie and children, Thomas, Harmony, and Evan: Machelle Anderson and children, Jaxsyn and Bayler: Jayde Anderson: Mark Stefan: Doug Stefan and wife Megan and children, Cody, Gabe, and Levi: Leland Kerr and children, Elijah and Emry: Jared Kerr and wife Paige and child Colter: and Nathan Kerr and wife Kennyn and child, Joel.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, December 5, 2022, at the First Baptist Church of Lockwood. Burial will follow in Round Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Sunday evening from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church of Lockwood. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church of Lockwood. Services are under the care of Lockwood Funeral Chapel.