Forest Ronald Leon Banks

A native of Boley, Oklahoma, Ronald Leon Banks --affectionately called Ronnie-- was the oldest of nine children born to Forest and Olivia Banks on October 20, 1939. A happy and outgoing child, Ronnie received both his elementary and high school education in Okfuskee County. Later, he attended East Central University and graduated from Langston University, receiving his Bachelor of Science degree with focus in counseling, criminal justice, and agriculture. In 1957, at the age of 17, Ronnie, with his parents’ consent enlisted in the United States Marine Corp as a proof-technician helper. He was stationed in Hawaii. After completing his military service, he returned to Boley where he supported himself as a cement finisher, a skill taught to him by his father. In 1961, he met and married his first wife Moezel Moore. To this union, his son Timothy Banks was born. Later, his children Reginald Banks-Benson, Ronald Banks Jr., and Alford Banks ,Colleen Banks-Kennon, and Terri Banks were born. On December 1, 1971, Ronnie was united with Elsie Mae Rainwater. They shared 44 years of marriage and to this union four children were born; Ronald Christopher, Forest Ronald, LaRonda Shanta-Ronnie, and Sheena Cytral Laron. During the course of his life, Ronnie worked, counseled, and volunteered in a wide variety of fields, allowing him the time and opportunity to touch many lives positively. He is known for his diligent work as a counselor for John H. Lily Correctional Center for Boys. Later in his life, Ronnie was a bus driver and substitute teacher for Gordon Cooper Vocational Technical Institute. But he is best known for the occupations that go without mention: farmer, rancher, agricultural specialist, reserve deputy sheriff, firefighter, grocery store owner, really, a “Jack of all trades.” He was also affiliated with the NAACP and was exceptionally active in the Civil Rights Movement. Among his honors, was recognition as “Farmer of the Year” in 2005. Ronald’s parents, Forest and Olivia, and three sisters, Oletha Ferdale, Doona Hope and Nian Renae, preceded him in death. Precious memories and traditions will be cherished and carried on by his family, which includes his loving and devoted wife, Elsie Banks; six sons, Timothy Banks (Doris), Reginald Banks-Benson (Tracey), Ronald Banks Jr. (Tasha), Alford Banks (Doreen), Craig Banks-Kennon , Ronald Christopher Banks, Forest Ronald Banks (Karla); four daughters, Colleen Banks-Kennon, Terri Banks, LaRonda Banks (Travis Stevenson Sr.) and Sheena Banks. Ronnie also leaves behind two brothers Charles Banks (Marget); Forest Troy Banks (Pamela); and three sisters, Linda Rice (Albert Sr.); Dollie Crenshaw (Arnelious); Ollie Smotherman; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.