Katrina "Tina" Banks Thomas, 61, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends. Born on May 22, 1965, in Galax, Virginia, she was the cherished daughter of the late William Banks and Esther Raye Banks.

A proud graduate of Tennessee High School, Tina's athletic talents led her to continue her education at Brevard College and later Louisiana State University (LSU), where she excelled in track and field. Her determination, discipline, and competitive spirit made her a standout athlete and earned her lifelong friendships. Tina remained closely connected to many of her LSU teammates throughout the years, treasuring the bonds and memories they shared both on and off the track.

After college, Tina embraced new adventures and opportunities. She briefly lived in Los Angeles, California, where she pursued a career in modeling. She later relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where she worked in merchandising. Eventually, she returned home to Bristol, Tennessee, where she enjoyed being close to family and the community she loved.

Tina's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was baptized at New Hope Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Russell Johnson and remained devoted to serving God throughout her life. Her dedication to ministry led her to serve as Director of the Youth Choir at Mount Carmel New Life, where she encouraged and inspired countless young people through music, faith, and fellowship.

For more than 30 years, Tina courageously battled Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Though the disease presented many challenges, she faced each one with remarkable strength, grace, and unwavering faith. Her resilience inspired everyone who knew her, and she never allowed her diagnosis to define her spirit or diminish her love for life and others.

Tina found great joy in her family and cherished every opportunity to spend time with her children and grandchildren. Whether sharing stories, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying each other's company, she created lasting memories filled with love, laughter, and encouragement. Her kindness, warmth, and compassionate heart touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed.

Tina was preceded in death by her parents, William Banks and Esther Raye Banks; her maternal grandparents, Fred and Blanche McMillan; her paternal grandparents, Dora Maxuel Banks and Booker Banks; and her brothers, Jerry Banks and Danny Banks.

She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved children, Ethan Thomas and Autumn Thomas; her grandchildren, Dritan Green-Thomas, Drelen Thomas, and an unborn baby girl; her four brothers Shannon Banks, Eugene Maxuel, Scott Newton, Eddie Dean Roberts, and two sisters Erica F. Banks and Sandy Madison; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends, former teammates, church family, and loved ones whose lives were forever enriched by her presence. Special thanks to Ken and Gloria Oster, Jane Hasko, and Peggy Hill who have been life long loved and supported friends that turned family.

Though she has departed this earthly life, Tina's legacy of faith, perseverance, friendship, and unconditional love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.