I recently learned of the passing of Dr. David Banks, and it hit me far deeper than I expected. Dr. Banks was more than just a teacher to me he was a mentor, a guide, and one of the first adults who truly saw me for who I was. As a white kid in a predominantly Black and Hispanic school, I often felt out of place, misunderstood, and even unwelcome. But Dr. Banks never looked at me that way. He didn’t see my skin color he saw my potential.

In a school where chaos often ruled the classroom and many teachers seemed burned out or detached, Dr. Banks was a rare light. He brought structure, kindness, and genuine care into every room he entered. He took time others wouldn't. He didn’t just teach lessons from a textbook he taught life, resilience, and dignity. When I was falling through the cracks, he pulled me out and helped set me on a path that led to a better future.

The world lost a great man one who gave without needing recognition, who believed in the power of one student, one conversation, one chance. I will never forget how he made me feel  like I mattered, like I was capable, and like I wasn’t alone. His legacy lives on in every student he lifted up, and I am just one of many who owe him more than words can express.

Rest in peace, Dr. Banks. You changed my life. Thank you for everything.

-Thomas Radford

He was the BEST teacher and I appreciated how he immersed us in the French culture!


My sympathy to the family of David Banks. 

Mr. Banks was a great teacher, and an asset to Arsenal Technical High School.  Thanks so much for always allowing me to have a Pepsi from your office refrigerator.

Many fond memories of Mr. Banks. He will certainly be missed by all who knew him.

He was a wonderful teacher and will be greatly missed.

One of the reasons I succeeded in school and, more importantly, in life.  Thank you Mr. Banks.

Mr. Banks was one of my favorite teachers. A true bright spot at Tech.  My deepest condolences to his family. He is highly regarded and truly missed.

I first met your husband at CAHS when he was one of my OUTSTANDING teachers. 
 
Who would ever have predicted that you and I would meet a few years later and become friends.  
There are things that we do not want to happen but have to accept, things we do not want to know but have to learn, and people we cannot live without but have to let go.  Gerri it is difficult to know what to say, except that I will think of you in friendship, keep you in my prayers forever, and that you have my sympathy.   
Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.    I Chronicles 16:11


Just got back from France 3 days ago, would not have been there without him. Best teacher and mentor that I've ever had. à bientôt, Monsieur Banks.

Mr. Banks was a terrific teacher, mentor, and friend. He did a lot for me, and I am very thankful. He will be missed. 

Bonne voyage à paradis, monsieur!

I will never forget you, Monsieur Banks. For twenty years at Tech H.S. I learned from you, and I leaned on you. You opened my eyes to another way of teaching and learning languages; I will forever be grateful. You are with God now, and at peace. My deepest condolences to your family.

I'm at a loss for words.  I'll always appreciate the support he showed me when I arrived at Tech to teach in his department.  Merci et au revoir monsieur.

A teacher I always have remembered with a smile. Au revoir, Monsieur Banks.

Gerri, the children, grandchildren, brother Calvin, brother in-law Eli, and rest of family:

You have my sincere sympathy and prayers for consolation, comfort, and peace.  David was ahead of me in school (Gerri was my classmate), and I remember him as being very mature, organized, honest/full of integrity, etc. --very admirable.  He will be sorely missed, but all the great memories you have will soften the mourning.

Dear Gerri and family,

Jack and I know your grief has no end right now.  David will be so terribly missed by all who knew and loved him.  You have our deepest condolences and unending prayers.  May God's eternal comfort be with you now and always and may your dear husband and father rest at peace with our Lord.

Terri

I remember Mr. Banks when I was a student in the Foreign Language Magnet Program at Tech High School. He also served as chaperone when students taking Japanese would attend foreign language camp at Earlham College. Mr. Banks was a good teacher and a great man. 

My deepest sympathy to the family of Mr. Banks.  He was my teacher at CAHS and was a great influence in my life.  I often remember him with a smile and am so blessed having known him.  He was a great person with a gentle firmness. It was so obvious how much he cared for the students and was serious about learning.  I wish there could be more teachers like him.  

I will forever remember his love for excellence. He pushed everyone to be better people. He will be missed.

AVIS DE DÉCÈS

Mr. David Banks

31 mai 1941 – 30 octobre 2010

Crown Hill Funeral Home & Cemetery

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