Doris Lewis Banks

Doris Lewis Banks went home to her heavenly Father on Sunday, January 15, 2012.  She was born on January 5, 1925, to the late Dock and Bethena (Scott) Lewis in Cedars, Mississippi.   She accepted Christ at an early age when she joined Hopewell Baptist Church in Cedars, Mississippi.

Doris married David Banks and moved to Niagara Falls, New York, in 1945.  She worked at Carborundum Company for a number of years.  She was a charter member of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Niagara Falls, New York, until moving to Marietta, Ohio, in 1964 where she joined the Wesleyan Methodist Church. 

Before settling down each evening, she would read her Bible, and her favorite scripture was 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18.  She worked at Betsey Mills Club and retired from Marietta College on August 26, 1994, with 30 years of service.  Doris Banks energetically served as a member of the American Legion Post 714 Ladies Auxiliary.  In addition, she actively volunteered numerous hours at the YMCA during swim meets.  Doris had a loving heart, ministering to the sick and the needy.  Her hobbies included gardening, sewing, crocheting, knitting, candy making, cooking and baking.  She was an exceptional cook and baker, especially known for her cookies and apple pies.  Doris was a gracious hostess to all who visited her home.

While ministering and caring for others, Doris modeled God’s unconditional love to her children.   

She leaves to cherish her memories, five daughters: Carol J. Banks Brewer of Town of Niagara, New York; Janice M. Banks of New York, New York; Betty A. Banks-Burke of Hudson, Ohio; Lily M. Banks of Stow, Ohio; and Vickie L. (Melvin) Reed of Coppell, Texas; six grandchildren and six great grandchildren; three sisters-in-law, Cora Harris of Gary, Indiana; Martha Banks of Southfield, Michigan; and Annie Pearl Banks of Niagara Falls, New York; a host of nephews, nieces and cousins.  She was preceded in death by her Mother and Father and by siblings, Erma J. (Charles) Daniels and Willie B. Lewis; husband David Banks, Sr., sons, Harvy B. and David, Jr., and daughter, Cherie L. Banks.

Calling hours are Friday evening, January 20, from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home, 314 Fourth Street, Marietta, OH  45750.  Viewing on Saturday, January 21, 10:00 AM and funeral to follow at the funeral home at 11:00 AM.  Immediately following the service, burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery.