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FRANKLIN – Rebecca R. Banks of Virginia Street, Franklin, was called to received her eternal rest and peace on Friday, April 9, 2021, surrounded by love and comfort in her daughter’s home in Emporia, Virginia. She was born on April 12, 1947 in Wilmington, North Carolina to the late Mary Rose and William Peterson. She was preceded in death by her husband, John L. Banks Jr.; her sisters, Helen Gause and Lois Mitchell; her sister-in-love, Selena B. Darden and nephews, Rodney Gause and Ramel Darden.

Rebecca was known to family and friends as “Peaches.” She was a woman of faith, strong-willed and had a heart of gold. Rebecca attended New Hanover County High School. After completing high school, she began working as a dietician aide at a nursing home in Wilmington and later at Southampton Memorial Hospital. Rebecca began her career at Hardee’s in 1980. She diligently worked her way up to store manager and worked for 31 years until retirement.

Rebecca was a faithful member of White Oak Spring Baptist Church and a devoted Missionary at Pleasant Shade Baptist Church of Franklin. After retirement, Rebecca earned her Personal Care Assistant certification and began working for Care Advantage. When she was not caring for others, you could find her at the local Farmer’s Market or any store catching sales.

Rebecca leaves to cherish, celebrate and continue her legacy, two children, Kevin Rose (Tracey) and Tia Powell; three sisters, Betty Ann Rose, Annie Ruth Gause and Amy Smith; one brother, Charles Gause; four grandchildren, Quentin Aaron Powell, Brittany Powell, Chantelle Rose, and Devin Rose; nieces, Rita Darden, Nakita Lee, Aerial Darden, Alexis Darden and Marie Clarkson; nephews, Robert Darden (Marissa), Dontae Lee, Aaron Darden (Amber), Xavier Darden, Warren Wilford II (“L.J.”), Asa Darden and Nathan Smith; one goddaughter, Natasha. She is also survived by cousins, other relatives and many loving friends.

A public viewing for Mrs. Banks will be held at the funeral home on Friday, April 16 from 3 to 7 p.m. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, April 17, at 1 p.m. in White Oak Spring Baptist Church, 26125 Delaware Road, Franklin with the pastor, Dr. Melvin Wofford delivering the message of comfort. The committal and benediction will be held in Southview Cemetery. A service with dignity will be conducted by Wm. M. Johnson & Sons Funeral Home Inc., 224 South Main Street. Please share your condolences with the family at wmjohnsonandsons.com.