It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Charles R. Banks, who was born on December 18, 1929 in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He departed this life peacefully at home on May 5, 2026, at the age of 96.
Charles was born to the late Raymond and Ethel Banks and was raised in Pleasantville, New Jersey, where he attended the Pleasantville public school system. Charles proudly served in the United States Army. Throughout his life, Charles was knownas a hardworking and dedicated man. He was employed by Kentile Company in South Plainfield and Somerset Lumber in Somerville, New Jersey for many years. He retired from the Suburban Bus Company in New Brunswick, NJ at the age of 88.
Charles had a deep love for music and was a talented musician who played the Hammond organ. He led his own band, “The Big Banks Organ Trio” and performed at many venues through the East Coast, bringing joy and entertainment to countless people through his music.
Along with his parents, Charles is preceded in death by his beloved wife Shirley Elliott Banks, his son Charles R. Banks Jr., his daughter Lenora Webb and his siblings Leon Banks and Ethel Bibby.
Left to cherish his memory is his son Donald Banks from his previous marriage to Susie Banks, his daughter Lavern Long, his grandchildren Crystal P. Banks (Marcus Roland), Nasif Clark, Lafiah Spivey, Ryland Long IV, Shakia Polk (James A. Polk) and Sherone Long: 10 great grandchildren; his stepdaughters, Kim Diane Lofton (Calvin Lofton) and Robin Preston Langhorn (Rudy Langhorn). He also leaves behind his best friend Ronald “Big Boy” Davis and a host of family and friends.