Frederick Keith Banty, 73, passed away at his home on October 8, 2018.

Keith was born in Roanoke Rapids, NC, on January 2, 1945 to the late Madeline Strickland Banty Poole and James Leroy Banty.  

He was also predeceased by his brother, Ronald Banty.

Keith is survived by his wife of 51 years, Joy Johnson Banty; a daughter, Leigh Banty Cooke and husband David; grandchildren Jackson Cooke, Haley Cooke, and Kathryn Cooke; great-grandchildren Jackson Livesay, Brantley Cooke, and Annaleigh Cooke; two brothers-in-law Tommy Johnson (Shirley) and John Johnson; sister-in-law Linda Banty; an aunt, Marie Strickland; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Keith graduated from Roanoke Rapids High School in 1963 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps soon after, where he trained at Parris Island, SC, then served tours in Oceanside CA, Camp Lejeune, NC, and also a tour in Vietnam.

Keith was a long-time member of First Christian Church.  He also held membership in Widow’s Son Lodge #519, Amvets post #320, Twin City Rifle Club, and the NC Wildlife Association.

Keith worked for many years as a union boilermaker with Greensboro Local #30, at JC Penney, and Weldon Steel Corporation. He was a kind and generous man who was greatly loved by his family and friends.  Keith will truly be missed.

A service celebrating Keith’s life will be held at Hockaday Funeral Home on Thursday, October 11th at 2:00 p.m. with the Rev. Dr. Julian Mills officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 12 noon until 1:30 p.m. Thursday, prior to the service.

The family would like to thank his hospice nurses Gaynell, Karen, and Elizabeth for their unfailing care and kindness during his last few months.

Online condolences may be made at www.hockadayfs.com