Ernest Banks

Ernest "Sunny Boy" Banks, age 80, passed away April 6, 2017. He was born December 27, 1936 to the late Winston Banks and Christine Perry in Eudora, Arkansas.

At the age of 16, Ernie joined the U.S. Air Force and was honorably discharged; he later served as a member of the American Legion for Veterans. In 1999, he retired from Chrysler Jeep. Ernie was a volunteer at the former Ypsilanti Regional Psychiatric and Forensic Center. Ernie had a joyful personality whose presence commanded attention when he walked in the room. He was always making jokes; the good, bad, and the ugly! He loved cooking. His family will especially miss his turkey dressing, peach cobbler, and his homemade vanilla ice cream. Ernie enjoyed watching The Walking Dead, old westerns, and Kung Fu was his favorite. His favorite musician was B.B. King and songs, "Hit the Road Jack" as well as "Peace in the Valley". Ernie also enjoyed playing cards, checkers, and dominoes as well as swimming. Ernie was a devout member of Victory Harvest COGIC in Santa Maria, CA where he gave sermonettes of exhortation to the congregation. He was also a member of Westside Community Church in Santa Paula, CA and served as a member of Braden United Methodist Church in Toledo, OH until his passing.

Left to cherish in memory is his loving wife of 24 years, Albertah; children, Anthony J. Banks, Richard (Tanisha) Rayford, Ernest Banks Jr., Christopher (Denise) Rayford, Julie Thomas-Banks, Arnetta (William) Buford, Arletta Crumby, Alajah Banks, Alexia Banks, June Irvin, and Sharon Banks; a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins; special niece, Dionna Hartfield; special cousin, Annette Hawkins; and his beloved dog Molly. Preceding Ernie in death were 3 brothers and 2 sisters.

The family will be receiving guests Thursday, April 13, 2017 from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at Newcomer Funeral Home, 4752 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo (419-381-1900). Funeral Services will begin at 12:00 p.m. Repass following.

A special thanks to Heatherdowns SNF and Rehabilitation, Northwest Ohio Hospice Center, and Dr. Winston Dixon, Pastor of Braden United Methodist Church.