Judith Banta Obituary

Banta
Judith Banta
January 9, 1943
October 1, 2024

Judith "Judy" Irene (Wilson) Banta, 81, died peacefully at her home in Colorado Springs, CO on October 1, 2024 surrounded by family. Judy was born on January 9, 1943 in Battle Mountain, NV to James and Clarice (Parr) Wilson. She graduated from Reno High School in 1961 and in 1965 she graduated from the University of Nevada with a degree in elementary education. While a student at the university she met, fell in love with, and on July 27, 1965 married her husband of 59 years, retired US Army Colonel Donald "Don" J. Banta. Judy proudly served as an Army spouse during Don's long career in the Army. Judy raised their three children alone while Don served tours of duty in Vietnam. She seamlessly relocated their entire household more than a dozen times, and she supported and nurtured newer Army spouses, all with grace and competence. On occasions, she would also teach elementary school, and she was a powerful advocate for education.
Following Don's retirement from the Army, they settled in Colorado Springs where Judy became an active volunteer in the community. She dedicated time and energy to the Pi Beta Phi alumni chapter, the Newcomer's Club, the Ronald McDonald House, the Assistance League, and other non-profit organizations. Her heart was big and her desire to help others was bigger. In her spare time, she enjoyed spending time with family, playing board games and doing puzzles and traveling and camping in a progression of dwellings ranging from tents to travel trailers to motorhomes.
Judy is survived by her husband Don, her sister Sharon Barcellos, her three children Marilyn Banta (and husband Joe Veech) of San Marcos, TX, DJ Banta (and wife Pam) of Colorado Springs, CO, Andrea Nickels (and husband Rob) of Scottsville, VA, her beloved grandchildren Phil, Riley, Brooke, Calvin, Evan, Justin, Natalie and Jordan and several cousins, nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Beverly K. Taylor.
A public celebration of life gathering is planned for a future date. Please leave a condolence message for the family at www.mykeeper.com/JudithBanta. Donations may be made to the Assistance League of Colorado Springs (www.assistanceleague.org/colorado-springs/donate)