Wayne “Mountain” Banks, lovingly known as “Pop” and “Papa,” passed away on August 23 at the age of 78.
Pop was the heart of his family and a steady, loving presence in the lives of those who knew him. His life was defined by the family he helped build, the memories he created, and the lasting influence he had on each generation that followed him.
During the final years of his life, Pop was cared for at home by his granddaughter, Marisa “MJ” Nevels-Johnson. Their time together created a bond that words could never fully describe. Caring for him through the ordinary days, difficult days, laughter, stories, and quiet moments was one of the greatest honors of her life.
Pop shared a special connection with his great-grandchildren, particularly his great-granddaughter Kalani. Their relationship became a treasured part of the family’s story and a beautiful reminder that love reaches across generations.
He is survived by Jennifer Searcy and her husband, Leo; Shelley Banks-Robinson and her husband, Craig; Emily Woodard and her husband, Keaundre, and their children, Har’Moni, Ki’ler, and K’reid; Marisa Nevels-Johnson and her husband, Deszmond, and their children, Olivia, Kinsley, Cooper, Charli, Kalani, Mariah, Deszmond II, Ava, and Ari; Elliott Searcy and his partner, Bucky; and his sister, Patricia White. He is also survived by many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Zim Banks and Bernice Barton Banks; his brothers, Wallace and Larry Banks; and his sister, Jackie Brown.
In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests that memorial donations be made in Pop’s memory to the American Heart Association. These contributions help support lifesaving research and advancements in the prevention, treatment, and understanding of atrial fibrillation, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions. Memorial gifts may be made at www.heart.org.
Pop was deeply loved, faithfully cared for, and never alone. His family will carry his memory, his stories, and his love in their hearts for the rest of their lives.
