Benny Ray Banks

Benny Ray Banks was born to the honorable Rev. and Mrs. William Banks, Sr. He was introduced to the world on July 13,1930, in Middlesboro, Kentucky and was the fifth of seven children. Benny’s impact was immediately felt throughout the Banks household. He was lovingly raised in a God-fearing home, where there was continuous “attitude adjustments” among the siblings, which immensely prepared Benny for his later career choice in education. In this home, love always prevailed. His childhood supplied him with stories and encounters that he never grew tired of sharing to anyone with a listening ear. Benny’s adolescent years were spent in Williamson, West Virginia where he learned life, coming up on the “rough side of the mountain.” Later, he gave his life to the Lord; thank God! Benny’s adult life was spent in Columbus, Ohio. He graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Education. Upon settling in Columbus, the Lord mercifully paired him with his lifelong soulmate. He married Lavon Elizabeth Hammock, a woman of incredible faith, beauty and grace and a charismatic smile that could brighten any room. In 59 years of marriage, they raised four wonderful, smart, loving children. After the untimely death of their daughter, Karen, Benny and Lavon welcomed the challenge of raising of her five lively, beautiful and fun children. This was the most rewarding experience for both grandchildren and grandparents. Benny and Lavon spent nearly the rest of their lives educating children as teachers, administrators, and parents for more than 50 years each. Throughout his life, Benny served in the United States Army, superintendent of various Sunday schools, authored numerous children’s stories and books, and created board games and innovative learning techniques for young students. He found joy in curating music, playing the piano, learning new dances, riding roller coasters, capturing life’s moments on his iPhone, and discovering fresh adventures on his daily walks throughout the city. Loving memories are cherished by his sons, Kevin (Renita) Sr., Kenneth (Angelia) Sr., Kelan (Dawn) Sr., and Savon Banks; daughters, Karen, Kiara, Kayla, Sanae, and Misha Banks; special daughters, Esther Banks, Angela Banks, and Marchia Jones; grandchildren, Shanna, Kevin Jr., Rashae, Kenneth Jr., Sydney, Sasha, Kelan II, Jalyn, Darius (Jasmine), and Joshua Banks; great grandchildren, Kamryn, Cruz, Ivy Sage, Danny, and Maverick; bonus grandchildren, Aaron (Devyn), Anjenise, Aaron IV, Gianni, Lauran and Journee; and countless other family members, former students, colleagues, and friends. Benny would like to be remembered for his love for Christ, family, all children and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches (in that order). Bye yall. See ya later.