Melvin Atlas Banks, Sr.

     On Sunday, February 11, 2024, our beloved "Provider" and "Grandpa," Melvin Atlas Banks, Sr., peacefully transitioned from this earthly life to the embrace of Heaven, surrounded by the love of his family at his residence, after a brief illness.

     Melvin embarked on his earthly journey on January 13, 1942, as the eldest child of Solomon Banks and Alma Atkins in Emporia (Greensville County), Virginia. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Gloria Banks, and siblings Christine, Earnest, Martha and Larry Banks. Additionally, his grandson, Tenell, and great-grandchildren, Lembia and Ja'Mia preceded him in death.

     Baptized at an early age, Melvin was a devoted member of Rocky Mount Baptist Church and also found joy in attending his family church, Rising Star Baptist. Leaving school in the fifth grade, he worked alongside his mother in the fields to support the family. He later joined his brothers, Earnest and Larry Banks, in the logging industry. Melvin and Gloria lovingly raised six children and embraced Contessa Atkins as a cherished member of their family.

       His professional journey led him to a 35-year tenure as a dedicated driver for Richfood, later known as Super Value. Melvin retired in February 2004, receiving recognition for 28 years of safe driving with A Safe Driving Achievement Award and a Certificate of Profitability. He took pride in sharing his story of hard work and independence since the age of 14.

     Melvin found joy in simple pleasures, including watching westerns on TVLand, AMC, cartoons, and MSNBC. He also appreciated the music of Lee Williams and Rance Allen.

      Melvin leaves behind a legacy of love and strength, dearly missed by his children: Sandra Garrett (Daniel), Rose Banks Simmons, Thelma Banks, Pamela Banks-Smith, Melvin Banks Jr., Aretha Banks Ellsworth, and Eric Carpenter. His memory is cherished by nineteen grandchildren, twenty-two great-grandchildren, and two devoted sisters, Rose Ella Swann-Mamak and Ellen Gilliam. He is also remembered by sisters-in-law, Emma Banks and Paulette Banks, brothers-in-law, Carl Simmons Sr. and James Simmons, seven goddaughters, including Mary Ann Daniels, Marion Andrews, Melinda Young, Latrice Stallings, Sylvia Lee, Margaret Adams, and Laverne Goode-Lewis. Special nephews, Ernest Banks Jr., Larry Banks Jr., Derrick Banks, and Marcus Garris, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends, reflect the impact of Melvin's love and presence in their lives.

     Melvin, our "Provider" and "Grandpa," your sunshine has come, your wings are on. As you soar as our guardian angel, watching over us, we find solace in knowing that there is no more pain or suffering—only the promise of a joyful reunion when we meet again.

Relatives and Friends are encouraged to visit Mr. Banks' tribute wall to share memories, extend condolences and to order floral tributes, as sentiments to the family. 

The Management and Staff of Knox-High Mortuary, Inc. is privileged to provide

"Distinctive Services, With The Essence Of Excellence"

to the family of Mr. Melvin Atlas Banks, Sr..

 "Diligent in Business; Fervent in Spirit." - Romans: 12:11

***TO ENSURE DESIRED FLORAL SELECTIONS AND A TIMELY DELIVERY, 

 PLEASE PLACE ORDERS THE DAY PRIOR TO THE FIRST VIEWING OF DECEASED**

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