William "Bob" Banks

Bob as a man whose heart was as wide as his smile. He never met a stranger, and those who had the pleasure of crossing his path were immediately drawn to his warm spirit, infectious laughter, and genuine kindness. Despite facing a debilitating illness—rheumatic fever—in his childhood, Bob triumphed over adversity to live a full and impactful life centered on faith, family, and love.

Bob was united in marriage to the late Brenda Johnson, gaining two stepchildren whom he loved as his own. The years they shared were filled with love, companionship, and deep devotion until her passing in 2001.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Bob worked for many years as a delivery driver for the former Banks Furniture Company in Holly Hill. He served with pride and loyalty until the company's closing. He then transitioned into a supervisory role at Harleyville Builders Supply, where he remained until his well-earned retirement.

Bob’s faith in God guided his every step. He accepted Christ at an early age and became a devoted member of New Jerusalem Baptist Church, where he served faithfully as a trustee and a member of the Brotherhood. Later in life, he moved his membership to Bethel AME Church, continuing his service with the same commitment and love for the Lord. He served as Chairman of the Trustee Board, Class Leader and Usher, active member of Bible Study, and represented the church in The Sons of Allen.

Known for his gentle spirit and generous heart, Bob embodied Christian values in every aspect of his life. He was the kind of person who made everyone feel like family. Though he had no biological children, he embraced his many nieces, nephews, and stepchildren as his own—each receiving a special pet name from “Uncle Bob,” a testament to his deep personal connection with those he loved.

Bob was preceded in death by his loving wife: Brenda;  parents: Annie Lee and Lewis; sisters: Barbara A. Washington and Lula B. Smalls; and brothers: James “Date” Banks, Samuel Banks, Mitchum Banks, and Johnny Banks; his long-time friend, co-worker and brother-in-law: Harry Smalls.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving caretaker and brother: James “Jim” Banks,  nieces and caretakers: Bridget Banks, Regean Banks, and Porcha Sellers; his stepchildren: McAuthor Shingler and Jenell (Michael) Marcus; three grandchildren: aunt: Katie Spears; oldest nephews: Donald and Earl Banks; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, church family, and countless friends who will forever remember his unwavering kindness, his joyful presence, and his devotion to God and others.

To know Bob was to know love in its purest form. He will be dearly missed, but his light will continue to shine in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” 

Matthew 25:23

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