Gene and Helen Banks have known each other since they were preschoolers. Both natives of Burnsville, NC, Gene’s grandmother lived down the road from Helen’s mother, so the two children often played together and also went to Burnsville schools together. After graduating from Burnsville High School, Gene joined the Navy at 19 years old. Helen, who graduated a year later, went on to Cosmetology school and became a beautician.

The couple were married on February 27,1953, and had two daughters, Kelli and Angel. While raising a family, Gene went back to business school and was holding down several jobs at once. It was a difficult thing, so he felt very fortunate when a friend from church told him about a job at WWNC Radio as the Advertising Sales Manager! Gene landed the job and continued working there until retirement.

Helen, meanwhile, continued her beautician work and was quite busy raising the two girls. She enjoyed cooking, sewing, and keeping a pretty home. The Banks were very active in Macedonia Baptist Church where Gene served as a deacon for many years. Helen worked with the young children’s programs. She especially enjoyed helping with Vacation Bible School in the summers.

Family activities were centered around the church, and they made many friends there. Gene and Helen had fun entertaining these friends at their home. A favorite thing to do at these gatherings was to play Canasta.

Gene and Helen both love the outdoors and are very interested in birds and animals. He enjoys woodcarving and gardening. Her special interests besides cooking and sewing are crafting and decorating.

The couple moved to Heather Glen in January of 2020, and despite some initial adjustments, have found that this is a good place to call home. They miss seeing family and friends but are looking forward to good things to come.

Thank you for being a part of Heather Glen, Gene and Helen. We are glad you are here!