James Hicks Wilbanks

James Hicks Wilbanks, age 93, of  Lakemont, Georgia, passed away on September 26, 2017. He was born the eldest child of the late Marlor and Wilda Wilbanks in 1924.

As a young man, “Hicks” served proudly in the United States Army, and was a veteran of World War II. He was a member of the 71st Infantry Division, in the European Theater, under Patton’s 3rd Army. Upon completion of his war service, he would move to Atlanta for 15 years, working in the construction industry. Hicks was a loving husband of 73 years, and a lifelong best friend to his wife Joyce Frances McKay Wilbanks, who passed away on September 17, 2017. 

He is survived by his two daughters, Joyce Yvonne Wilbanks of Lakemont, GA., and Frances Jacqueline Wilbanks Goodman and husband Paul of Nashville, TN; three grandchildren Christin Henderson, Elisabeth Parker and husband  George  and Chuck Goodman; three great grandchildren Andrew Henderson, Austin Henderson, Isaiah Hicks Parker.

He is also survived by his sisters, Florine Wall, Beulah Smith, Lurlene Stephens, Jewell Speed; one brother, Bartley Wilbanks.

The family will receive friends at the Beck Funeral Home in Clayton, GA from 6 – 8 pm on Friday, September 29, 2017.

A funeral service will be held at the Lakemont Baptist Church on Saturday September 30, 2017 at 2:00 pm with Rev. Jewell Gaines, and Rev. Madison McCrackin, officiating.

A graveside service with military honors will follow in the Harvey Cemetery in Tallulah Falls, GA.

Beck Funeral Home, in Clayton, Georgia, is in charge of the arrangements. If there are any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online Memorial Register Book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.

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