Linda Gayle Banger

Linda Gayle Wood Banger died at the age of 77 in her home with her family on Thursday, June 18, 2026, after battling chronic health issues for over a decade. She was preceded in death by her beloved Daddy, Owen Wood, and her best friend, her Mama, Gloria Tanner. She was also preceded by multiple aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Gayle loved them all deeply. Gayle had dogs growing up and wanted her children to experience this, so the family got Molly, their basset hound. Gayle loved her dearly and Molly preceded her in death as well. She is survived by her husband of 41 years, John, and her children, Laura Banger, and Justin Banger, along with his wife Maggie. She is survived by the two lights of her life, her grandchildren, Sophie and AJ Banger, as well as, her sister Lisa (Jim Ennix) Coleman and brother, Alvie Cofield, who were constantly on her mind and in her heart. Her brothers and sisters-in-law through John were also dear to her: Jimmy and Mary, Jerry and Savel, who preceded Gayle in death, and Jason and Regina. Her nephews, nieces, great-nephews, and great-nieces have been a source of great happiness throughout their lives. She enjoyed being as much a part of their lives as possible since moving from Georgia to Alabama. Gayle worked at J.P. Stevens in Milledgeville, GA for many years prior to meeting John in 1976. They began dating and got married in 1984. Gayle continued working for J.P. Stevens until having Justin in 1985. She then focused on her family and had Laura 18 months later, rounding their family of 4. In addition to being a voracious reader, Gayle enjoyed many different activities, particularly creative arts like scrapbooking, painting, and types of needlework. She was an active member of Riverchase Community Church after moving to Alabama in 1996 and began serving as the church treasurer after a few years of being in the congregation. This was a volunteer position she held for 15 years. Also during this time, Gayle became a Nana and began taking care of Sophie, and then A.J., helping with daytime and afterschool care. She was so happy doing this, and they were the joys of her life. Gayle then began having chronic health issues, which resulted in her beginning to remain home. She kept in touch with people through social media, text messaging, and phone calls mainly when she was able. Whether she communicated it or not, Gayle’s love for everyone never faded. She will be greatly missed. Tuesday, June 23, 2026 Visitation 12-1pm, Service 1:00 pm McCalla Memorial Funeral Home Entombment immediately to follow Southern Heritage Cemetery Reception to follow Riverchase Community Church

Linda Gayle Banger

August 13, 1948 - June 18, 2026