Rebecca White

Rebecca Banyard White, affectionately known as Becky, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2025, at her home in Colby, KS, at the age of 80 surrounded by her family.

Becky was born on February 5, 1945, in Oklahoma City, OK, to Frank Herbert Banyard and Florence Elizabeth (La Rue) Banyard. Proud of her English and French heritage, Becky was raised with a deep sense of family, tradition, and the importance of making a meaningful life.

A 1963 graduate of Hutchinson High School, Becky went on to attend Hutchinson Jr. College and later earned both her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from The University of Kansas. Her love of learning and education shaped much of her early life.

It was during her time at KU that Becky first met Larry Lynn White, and the two were “pinned” in college — a symbol of deep affection and commitment. Although life took them in separate directions, fate brought them back together years later. Through Larry’s persistence and heartfelt determination, he won his way back into her life and heart. They were married on November 30, 1991, in the beautiful Loretto Chapel in Santa Fe, NM — a celebration of a love story that came full circle.

Becky’s professional career was as vibrant and versatile as she was. She worked as a Real Estate Agent with Santa Fe Properties in Santa Fe, and later as Chief Financial Officer and Vice President of Whites Factory Outlet Centers, working alongside Larry to build a successful family business.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Becky lived with passion and elegance. She had a deep love for art, cooking, and hosting dinner parties — always with a keen eye for detail and a gift for making others feel welcome. She was a world traveler, always eager to explore new cultures, but her heart found true peace in her favorite place on earth — St. Maarten in the Dutch West Indies, her own little slice of heaven.

Family was the cornerstone of Becky’s life. She gave generously of her time, love, and energy to her children and grandchildren, creating a legacy rich in laughter, warmth, and unforgettable memories. Holidays, gatherings, and quiet moments alike were made special by her presence and grace.

She was an engaged community leader and proud member of several organizations, including PEO, Colby Women’s League, Leadership Kansas, Leadership Thomas County, and the Colby Diplomats. Her ability to connect with others and lead with compassion left a lasting mark on every community she served.

Becky is preceded in death by her brother Charles Lay, sisters Berta Luehrs and Carol Crowe, her parents Frank and Florence Banyard, and in-laws Lloyd and Lucille White.

She is survived by her beloved husband of 34 years, Larry White; her children Tyler & (Kelly) Wolfe, Aaron & (Valerie) White, Devon & (Michael) Meyer, and Layne & (Scott) Sitton; 18 grandchildren, 7 great-grandchildren, and another great-grandchild soon to arrive.

Visitation is 5-7:00 p.m. Monday, September 15, 2025, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. A celebration of Becky’s life will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at Baalmann Mortuary, Colby. Becky will be laid to rest at Beulah Cemetery in Colby, Kansas. Memorials may be made to the NWKS Foundation for HOPE and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com

Becky will be remembered for her strength, elegance, and joyful spirit. Whether she was planning the perfect meal, traveling to new places, or simply holding the hand of someone she loved, Becky brought light and beauty to every moment. Her legacy of love, laughter, and grace lives on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.