Jesse Wayne Wilbanks “Homer” of Dandridge passed away on May 1st, 2026. Wayne was a man who measured his life not in accomplishments, but in relationships: the friends who showed up for his famous 4th of July celebrations, the neighbors who knew he would stop and help, and the family he loved unconditionally. In 2023, he retired from Knoxville Utilities Board after 35 years. After retirement, he spent his days doing what he loved most-gardening, fishing, and hunting at English Mountain Bear and Boar Club along spending time with his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his sons, Justin Wilbanks, Matthew Covington; father, J.W. Wilbanks; grandfather, James Jacobs; grandmother, Betty Jacobs; and special grandparents, Jesse and Lizzie Akins. He is survived by his loving wife and best friend Donna Wilbanks; his 5 children, Danny Covington, Dylan (Cheyenne) Bryant, Cruz Hurst, beloved daughter Kristen Wilbanks (Princess), and William Bernard (Willy Wonka); his grandchildren, Deven Covington, Ruby Covington, and Hudson Bryant his mother, Brenda Wilbanks; his brother, Michael (Chasity)Wilbanks; Sisters, Beth (Richard) Williams, Donna Wilbanks, and many other close family members. Beloved sister-in-law: Tammy (Ricky) Burchell. Special Nephews: Cody Burchell, Kane Collins, and Anthony Pruitt. Special friends Chris Noe, Allen “Hillbilly” Wilson, Lee Parris, Steve Campbell, Ronnie Noe, Mike Branch, Jay Sharp, Scott Jackson, Rick Lane, Randall Greene, and host of many others.
The family will receive friends 1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Saturday, May 9, 2026 in the Trinity Funeral Home. The service to follow with eulogy by Cole Burchell. Trinity Funeral Home, Maynardville, has the honor of serving the family of Wayne Wilbanks. 865-992-5002 www.trinityfuneralhome.net