James (Jimmy/Jim/Pap) Odell Banks, Jr., age 79, of Birmingham, AL passed away July 6, 2020 after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s. Jimmy was born February 9, 1941 to Odell and Juanita Banks in Walker County Alabama.
He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Michael Banks. Jimmy married Virgie Lee Worthington Banks on May 4, 1958 in Fulton, MS. He was a member of the Hoover Church of Christ.
Jimmy was an avid Auburn fan and watched the games whenever he could. He got his first motorcycle at age 40 and taught himself to ride. He fell in love with riding and progressed through several bikes, eventually getting a custom orange and blue Honda Gold Wing. War Eagle! His wife joined him with her own bike. They were members of a local Gold Wing club and made many trips together across the country. His favorite trip was to Helen, GA. Jimmy began his 41-year career at Alabama Power/Southern Company in 1959 as a sweeper at Gorgas Steam Plant. He progressed through various roles at Alabama Power/Southern Company and retired in 2001.
Jimmy leaves behind his loving wife of 62 years, Virgie L. Banks, children James Terry Banks (Jan) of Hoover, AL and Karen Sue Shepherd (Ken) of Hayden, AL, grandchildren Taylor Banks (Laine), Michael Banks, Ellie Banks, Hunter Shepherd (Ashley) and Cheyenne Shepherd Graves (Mason), great granddaughters Hannah Lee Shepherd and Hollings Guinn Banks due in September, brothers Larry Banks (Betty) and Tim Banks (Jane), several nieces and nephews and his loving dog, Lily Dale.
The family would like to express their deep appreciation to the caregivers at South Haven Health and Rehabilitation in Hoover, AL and Comfort Care Hospice for their loving compassion and care during his final months.
In lieu of flowers please make a contribution to Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Avenue, Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601 or to Childhaven Child Home, 1816 Childhaven Road NE, Cullman, AL 35055. A visitation for Jimmy will be held Thursday, July 9. 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Collins Burke Funeral Home, 303 Oak Hill Road, Jasper, AL 35504 with the service following at 12:00. There will be no graveside services. Chuck Webster will officiate.
