Mrs. Leila Ellen Banks Morgan, age 91, of Douglas, Georgia, formally of Barnesville, Georgia, passed away peacefully at her home on May 1, 2026. She was born on April 10, 1935, the daughter of the late Mr. James Louis Banks and the late Katherine Gordy Banks..
She was a homemaker for several years and a dedicated teacher for most of her career. She adored her children and their spouses, grandchildren, great grandchildren and her extended family and friends. She found no greater joy than conversing, laughing, and spending time with them. She was loved and adored by many. Instead of “I Love Lucy”, she was often referred to as “I Love Leila.” She found herself in several “predicaments” that were often humorous. There are many stories to tell and her legacy will live on forever.
Prior to her health declining, she enjoyed traveling, reading, and family time. She loved her church and attended St. Andrews Anglican Church in Douglas. She was also a member of the D.A.R. (Daughters of the American Revolution.)
Leila leaves behind her 2 daughters, Katherine Ruan Morgan Gaskins (Michael) and Margaret Banks Morgan Lewis (Chris), all of Douglas.
5 grandchildren, Amanda “Mandy” Brown (Gavin), of Yass, Australia, Carrie Batten (Jason) of Bonaire, Ga., Katherine “Katie” Horton (James, aka “Bubba”), Morgan Lewis (Anna), and Matthew Lewis, all of Douglas.
7 great grandchildren, Ellen “Ellie” Batten, Jacob Batten, Ashlyn Horton, Leila “Lo” Lewis, Katelyn Horton, Gwendolyn Lewis, and Cooper Brown.
She is also survived by her brother, Peter Louis Banks, several nieces, Bonnie Claytor (Jim), Beverly McEwen (Scott), Jannellen Rigg (Kevin), Elizabeth Jones (Jeff), and nephews John Morgan (Donna) , Mark Morgan, Charles Powell (Patti), and James Powell; a special friend and caretaker, Maria Ovalle Garcia (and her family), along with a number of extended family members and countless friends.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles “Chaaaleee” Crawford Morgan, Jr. They were married for 60 years, prior to his death in 2013. Also preceding her in death were her parents, James and Katherine Banks; grandparents, Peter and Velma Gordy and James and Ellen Banks. Also preceding her in death was her great grandson, Isom Lewis. Others include aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends.
Leila’s service will be held on Saturday morning at 11:00, at St. Andrews Anglican Church with Father Chris Brown officiating. Deacon Bob Millot will give the Homily and Deacon Dianne Milliot will read the Gospel.
Musical selections she chose for her celebration of life will include, “Amazing Grace,” “O God Our Help in Ages Past,” “How Great Thou Art,” and with our country that she loved dearly, “God Bless America” was a song she chose during these trying times. The beautiful sounding Bagpipes were played by: Grant Lilford and accompanying the organ will be Ann Vickers.
Internment will follow immediately after the celebration and will be held at the Douglas City Cemetery with Father John Commins and Rev. Paul Elliott saying closing remarks.
In Lieu of flowers, the family (And Leila) requests that donations be sent to her adored church, St. Andrews Anglican Church, 523, East Ward St., Douglas, Ga., 31533, or to Coffee County Cause for Paws in memory of her precious and very much loved and spoiled dog, Max!
Leila’s wishes that all her retired teacher friends and those she worked with be honorary pall bearers as well as D.A.R. members and those with the amazing Affinity Hospice Service. Her great grandson and nephews will also serve as honorary pall bearers.
Leila’s funeral arrangements will be entrusted to our dear friends of Sims Funeral Home.