James Curtis Banks was born on June 14, 1955 in Havana, Alabama. He was the third of four children born to the late Lee and Edrene Covington Banks.
James peacefully passed away surrounded by family and doctors on Friday, May 26, 2023. He was brought up in a devoted Christian home, with an emphasis on God, church, community, and education. Introduced to Jesus Christ at an early age, he joined St. Luke A.M.E. Zion Church in Havana, Alabama, where he remained a lifelong member, although he attended other churches throughout his life.
As a dynamic athlete, James graduated from the Class of 1973 at Greensboro Public School East, Greensboro, Alabama, where he participated in football and basketball. Before his sports career, he was a saxophonist in the Marching Raiders. Following high school, he attended Alabama A&M University in Huntsville, Alabama.
His strong work ethic was exhibited across various jobs, where he was often referred to as “the gogetter.” James worked for Olympic Mills, Hunt Oil, Fed-Express Trucking, Hale County Water Authority, and Empire Coke, among others. Despite health issues, he continued to take on small jobs like lawn service, pest control, and automobile detailing. Known for his kindness, respectfulness, and willingness to help those in need, he enjoyed spending time with family and friends, and loved happiness, peace, and music.
James was preceded in death by his parents, Lee and Edrene Banks, and his grandparents, George and Hattie Covington and James and Mary Banks.
Survivors include his two sons, Char’mayne Banks of Atlanta, Georgia, and James Banks, Jr. of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; two daughters, Kametra (Derrick) Perry of Moundville, Alabama, and Tausha F. Tarvin of Tuscaloosa, Alabama; five grandchildren, including a special grandson, James Banks III (Saint); a special nephew, Torrey Jimerson; a stepdaughter, Teisha G. Banks; a lifelong friend, Beverly F. Williams; six nieces; and numerous cousins and friends.
The memorial service was held on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 12:00 noon at the Cornerstone Full Gospel Church, 610 Brooksdale Drive, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35401. The service was officiated by Rev. Frank L. Lyles, with Overseer Freddie Washington, Sr. serving as pastor.Washington and Paige Mortuary directed.
