Patricia Banks Heaton

Patricia Banks Heaton, passed away on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at the Elizabeth House. Born on January 29, 1943, in Asheville, Patricia dedicated her life to hard work and caring for her family, embodying the values of love, dedication, and resilience.

Patricia was deeply rooted in her faith as a member of the Arden Missionary Baptist Church. She found great pleasure in caring for her pets and observing the beauty of wildlife, particularly the many birds that graced her yard. Patricia's nurturing spirit and love for nature endeared her to all who knew her.

As a cherished wife, she had a profound bond with her loving husband, Larry Clifford Heaton. Together, they created many treasured memories, enjoying leisurely rides through the picturesque mountains of their beloved home. Patricia's devotion extended to her children, including her son, DeWayne Edwin Orr, and step-son, Rob Heaton. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Dakota "Cody" Heaton, Tyler Heaton, and Cayden Payne, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

She is survived by her brother, Ronald Kenneth Banks, and his wife, Barbara, who stood by her side throughout her life. Patricia also leaves behind her sisters-in-law, Dorothy Banks and Barbara Banks; brother-in-law, James Franklin Brown; and a host of nieces and nephews who held a special place in her heart. Among them are Aretta Parton, Angie Steigerwald, Donna Wizsowaty, Jo Ann Allison, Jennifer Banks, and Karen Banks. Patricia was particularly proud of her six grand-nieces and three grand-nephews.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Lendell Reagan Banks and Gladys Davis Banks; her mother-in-law, Irene Turner whom she shared a close relationship with; and her siblings: Glenn Eugene Banks, Lester Norman Banks and his wife Ellen, Shirley Modena Banks Brown, and Doris Irene Banks Crisp and her husband Lloyd "Bo". She was also preceded in death by her nephew, David, and three other nephews who passed away in infancy.

A funeral service to celebrate Patricia's life will be held at 1 PM on Thursday, January 29, 2026, in the Chapel of Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home with burial to follow at Green Hills Cemetery. Her family will receive friends on Thursday before the funeral from 12:00 PM until 12:45 PM.

The warmth of Patricia's spirit, her unyielding love, and her unwavering commitment to her family will be profoundly missed. Her legacy of compassion and her gentle strength will continue to resonate in the hearts of those she touched throughout her life. May she rest in peace, knowing she was deeply loved and respected by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or online at stjude.org

Anders Rice & Roper Funeral Home and Cremation Center is honored to serve Patricia's Family.