Charles Edward Banks was born on July 28, 1941, to U.L. "Buddy" and Ruth Ann (Williams) Banks in Springdale, Texas. Charles passed away on Thursday, November 23, 2023, at the age of 82.

He married Ella Ann (Walker) Banks in 1964. To this union were born two children, Charlotte and Eric Banks.

Charles graduated from Thornton High School in Queen City, Texas. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Atlanta, Texas and a lifelong member of the NAACP, as well as a member of the Black Farmer's Association.

He retired from Red River Army Depot as a Supervisor after 27 years. He later worked for Atlanta Independent School District as a bus driver. He retired in 2006 as the head mechanic in transportation. Charles was extraordinarily mechanically inclined and often called on to fix things.

Charles Banks worked hard, put his family first and was always willing to stand up for what was right. He stressed the importance of ownership, especially land. He often stated, "Land is the only thing they are not making any more of."

His parents and siblings, Franklin "Frank" Banks, Ruby Finley, Geneva Manning, Allen Banks, Diana Ross and U.L. Banks, Jr. preceded him in death.

Charles Banks is survived by his wife Ann of 58 years, children, Charlotte Banks, Eric (Rhonda) Banks, two grandchildren, Kameron and Laila; brothers Theodore and Vernal "Vern" Banks, a sister Carol Jean Banks and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.