Bondsman Assoc. Helps OKC Woman Who Lost Baby, Husband

An Oklahoma City man was buried Monday after being killed by who police call a drunk driver. Now, his widow and 5-year-old son are preparing for an emotional first Christmas without their loved one.

A few months ago, Janae Banton's baby was delivered stillborn. Then, she lost her husband. Janae says she wasn't planning to celebrate anything this year until members of the Oklahoma County Bondsman Association stopped by with support and encouragement.

"I knew him since I was 17," said Janae. "He used to take me to school."

Ronald and Janae Banton were close until the very end. December 9, 2013 is a date Janae will never forget. Ronald and the couple's son were heading to breakfast when police say drunk driver Dustin Shane Hall slammed into Ronald's car. Janae was called to the hospital. Her husband was already dead.

"I stayed [with Ronald's body] for a minute and I prayed over him, and I held his hand just hoping that he would just wake up. I kissed him goodbye and went back to our son. I had to explain to my son that his dad would never come back."

Ronald died a hero, saving his son by shielding him from the impact. The youngster walked away without a scratch. At 5 years old, he still doesn't completely understand what happened. When members of the Oklahoma County Bondsman Association heard the Bantons' story, they cut a check for $500 to help buy Christmas gifts or anything else the Bantons need.

The suspected drunk driver, Dustin Hall, was arrested the day of the crash. He was out of jail the next day on a $6,000 bond.

This is the second family the Oklahoma County Bondsman Association has helped in the days leading up to Christmas 2013.

12/11/2013 Related Story: OK County Bondsman Assoc. 'Bails Out' Family In Need