Mr. Cary Edward Bankston

Mr. Cary Edward Bankston, age 84, of Barnesville, Georgia, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, July 9, 2026, at Emory St. Joseph's Hospital in Atlanta.

Funeral services for Cary will be held on Monday, July 13, at 11:00 a.m. at First Baptist Church of Barnesville. Rev. Jason Teal and Rev. Garth Forster will officiate, and interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 10:00 a.m. until the funeral hour.

Cary was born in Pike County on September 6, 1941, to the late Pete Bankston and the late Estelle Greene Bankston. He earned an engineering degree from Southern Polytechnic Institute and later a bachelor's degree from Georgia Southern University. As a third-generation owner of Bankston Lumber Company, Cary carried forward a family legacy of hard work, integrity, and service to his community.

While Cary enjoyed many accomplishments throughout his life, his greatest joy was his family. For 64 wonderful years, he shared a loving marriage with his beloved wife, Sue. Together they built a life filled with faith, laughter, friendship, travel, and countless treasured memories. Cary especially loved dancing with Sue, and whether at a special event, a gathering of friends, or simply enjoying time together, he cherished every opportunity to hold her hand and share a dance.

A man who never met a stranger, Cary loved people and loved having fun. His quick wit, playful spirit, and legendary "Dad" and "Granddaddy" jokes brought smiles to family, friends, and anyone fortunate enough to spend time with him. He had a gift for making others feel welcome and valued, and his generous heart touched countless lives.

Cary lived life to the fullest and remained remarkably active throughout his 84 years. An avid pickleball player, he embraced not only the sport but also the friendships and camaraderie that came with it. Whether on the court, at church, traveling, or spending time with friends, Cary brought enthusiasm, encouragement, and laughter wherever he went. He especially enjoyed summers in Highlands, North Carolina, and winters in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, creating cherished memories with family and friends along the way.

His faith in Jesus Christ was the foundation of his life. As a faithful and active member of First Baptist Church of Barnesville, Cary lived his faith through service, kindness, generosity, and a genuine love for others. He was active in the Rotary Club and Jaycees and was instrumental in helping provide for children through the Empty Stocking Fund, reflecting his lifelong desire to give back to his community.

Of all the blessings in his life, Cary was most grateful for his family. He delighted in attending the activities of his children and grandchildren, celebrating their accomplishments, and creating special memories with them. His grandchildren and great-grandson brought him immense pride and joy, and he treasured every moment they spent together.

Cary is survived by his devoted wife, Sue Middlebrooks Bankston of Barnesville; his son, Chuck (Kim) Bankston of Barnesville; his daughter, Beth (Johnny) Turner of Johns Creek; his sister, Barbara (Joe) Hatcher of Cleveland; five grandchildren, Chad Bankston, Abby (Bennett) Gibbs, Alex (Sam) Turner, Anna Turner, and Katie Bankston; and his cherished great-grandson, Murray Bennett Gibbs.

Though his family will deeply miss his laughter, his jokes, his wisdom, and his presence, they are comforted by the legacy of faith, love, generosity, and joy that he leaves behind. Cary's life was a testament to gratitude, family, friendship, and a faith well lived. His impact on those who knew and loved him will continue for generations.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to First Baptist Church of Barnesville., 200 Zebulon St., Barnesville, GA  30204. Fletcher-Day Funeral Home of Thomaston is in charge of arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.