Letrice E Ketchum Wilbanks

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Letrice E Ketchum Wilbanks, a vibrant and creative soul, who left us peacefully at the age of 91 on November 19, 2025, at North Alabama Medical Center in Florence, AL. Letrice, known as “Granny or Aunt Sis,” was a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend whose passion for crafts and baking touched the lives of everyone around her. Born on March 7, 1934, in Ripley, MS, Letrice was the daughter of Huey Jones Ketchum and Flora Louise Crum Ketchum. She was married to the late William Cleo Wilbanks for more than 60 years. Together, they built a wonderful life, welcoming two children, Debbie and Renna. She was a member of North Ripley Baptist Church. Dedicating more than 30 years to a career at General Electric, she retired to spend her life with her loving husband and family. Letrice was a true artisan at heart. Her love for crafts knew no bounds; she was skilled in knitting, crocheting, and painting. She spent countless hours at her craft area, transforming simple materials into beautiful works of art. Her handmade gifts were cherished by family and friends, and her home was a testament to her creativity, filled with colorful quilts, intricate decorations, and whimsical art pieces. She shared her passion for crafting with the local Young and Hearts group, where she inspired. In addition to her artistic endeavors, Letrice was an avid gardener, often combining her love for nature with her crafts. Baking touched many savory souls that indulged in her meals, and she submitted award-winning pieces at the Tippah County Fair. Other hobbies included square dancing, car shows, traveling, and water sports - each reflecting her vibrant spirit and zest for life. Letrice will be profoundly missed, but her spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those she touched and through the countless crafts and baked goods she lovingly created. Letrice is survived by two daughters, Debbie Elliott of Blue Mountain and Renna Keener (Pat) of Memphis. Six grandchildren, Nicole Hammons (Richard) of Memphis, Tracy Wyatt of Memphis, Mark Akins, and Matt Akins (Brooke) of Blue Mountain, Patrick Keener of Robinsonville, MS, and Krysten Harden of Memphis. Four great-grandchildren, Karlee Brooke Akins of Booneville, Andrew and William Wyatt of Memphis, and Elowyn Cleo Akins of Blue Mountain. A host of nieces and nephews. Letrice is preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband, three brothers – Junior Ketchum, Lonnie Ray Ketchum, and James “Pete” Luther Ketchum, and three sisters – Donnie Cosby, Ann Shappley, and Linda Mae Rogers. Pallbearers are: David Akins, Richard Akins, Eddie Barkley, Justin Gross, Curt Henry, Randy Joe Ketchum, Tony Morgan, Allen Vanstory In lieu of flowers, we kindly request that you consider donating to North Ripley Baptist Church or The Young and Hearts Club in Ripley.

Letrice E Ketchum Wilbanks

March 7, 1934 - November 19, 2025