Eugenia Rebeca Banu

Born in Arad, Romania, Gigi lived there until immigrating to the United States with her family in December 1983. Her life was marked by unwavering faith, courageous love, and a servant’s heart.

Gigi and her beloved husband, John Banu, shared nearly 50 years of marriage before his passing on December 1, 2015. Their deep affection and playful companionship made their marriage an example to many. She lovingly encouraged John as he preached, counseled, led the church, and wrote.

A wonderful cook and gracious host, Gigi delighted in caring for others. As a pharmacy technician at a maternity hospital in Arad, she encouraged Christian mothers and often had the joy of bringing newborn babies to their fathers for the first time.

After John’s passing, her ministry of evangelism and prayer flourished. She carried Scripture cards wherever she went, sharing hundreds with people in stores, hospitals, parks, and neighborhoods, always ready to speak about the Lord.

Prayer was the heartbeat of her life. She kept lists of hundreds of names and needs, fasted two or three days a week, and prayed regularly with other women. She spent countless hours on her knees interceding for her family and others. She especially treasured time with her grandchildren, pouring her heart into their lives and faithfully praying for each one.

In retirement, she immersed herself in Scripture, listened to sermons throughout the week, attended church, and nurtured relationships through prayer and encouragement.

Gigi faced cancer four times, beginning at age 50. Through each battle, she trusted God’s sovereignty and remained ready whenever He called her home. Her courage and determination strengthened and encouraged many.

Preceded in death by John, Gigi is survived by her children: Ligia Smith (Tom), Alin Banu (Kaja), and Daniel “Filu” Banu (Alina); and twelve beloved grandchildren: Bekah, Esther, Karissa, Jacob, David, Michaela, Jonathan, Jovan, Isabelle, Alexander, Matthew, and Joshua.

Her family has lost a faithful intercessor whose prayers covered their lives for decades. Yet her legacy lives on in the lives she touched and the faith she shared.

Her journey continues, no longer here with us, but in the presence of the Lord. She is home now.

Celebration of Life

Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM

Culpeper Christian Fellowship

15460 Bradford Rd Culpeper, VA 22701

A private family burial will be held Friday. Friends and loved ones are warmly invited to Saturday’s Celebration of Life.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations in Gigi’s memory to Zarefat, where her sons, Filu and Alin, serve. The ministry carries forward her legacy of faith, compassion, and love through protecting children, strengthening families, and sharing Christ. (zarefat.org/choose-a-cause-to-support/)