James Edward 'Eddy' Banks, 71, of Lampasas died peacefully on June 30, 2026.
Eddy was born on April 23, 1955, in Lampasas to Waymon Edward Banks and Margaret Maurine Harrison Banks. He lived a life defined by faith, selfless service, deep compassion, and an enduring love for his family, his country and the land he cherished.
A graduate of Lampasas High School's Class of 1973, Eddy joined the United States Air Force, where he faithfully served for over 20 years.
After his military career, he dedicated his life to helping others heal. He earned his graduate degree from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and became both a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. Throughout his counseling career, Eddy served military members, veterans and families struggling through life's challenges.
Eddy and Mayela owned and operated Solid Rock Counseling Center in Lampasas for 10 years, where his wisdom, encouragement and care impacted countless lives. Afterward, he and Mayela served as foster parents for another 10 years.
Later, Eddy continued his life's calling through Military Family Life Counseling Services, where he supported soldiers and their families with compassion and understanding.
Outside of his profession, Eddy found his greatest peace in God's creation. He loved fishing, ranching, shepherding and spending time outdoors. His faith was the foundation of everything he did. He was a member of New Covenant Church in Lampasas and later Beit Messiah in Georgetown, where he worshiped and served.
In 1988, Eddy married Mayela Zuniga Banks in Lampasas. This November, they would have celebrated 38 years of marriage.
Eddy is survived by his wife, Mayela Banks; his son, James 'Jim' Banks and wife Crystal Banks of Lampasas; his daughter, Jamey Stephenson and husband Troy Stephenson of Marble Falls; his grandchildren, Jason Ayers, Issa Oosse, Karissa Banks, Riley Banks and River Banks; a greatgrandson, Brooks Oosse; his brother, John Banks and wife Loni Banks of Helotes; his sisters, Marjorie Hamrick of White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, and Katrinka Perry and Audra Lagesse of Lampasas; along with numerous nieces, nephews and extended family members.
Eddy was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Wayne Banks.
Arrangements are under the care of Fulton Family Funeral Home.
