Rufus Jerome Banks II

As the eldest of four children, Rufus was truly a big brother to his siblings—Roslyn, Russell, and Kevin. He loved them dearly, though they might have felt differently when Rufus would “snap” on them and tease them without mercy. It was all in fun, and those who knew him best understood that this was his way of showing love to those he held close to his heart. Rufus’s lighthearted outlook and comedic timing kept the family laughing and smiling.

He spent the latter part of his youth in West Harlem before graduating from John F. Kennedy High School with excellent grades. Rufus knew he wanted to serve his country, and after graduation, he followed his heart and enlisted in the United States Air Force on July 14, 1978.

His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, leadership, and commitment to defending the United States and its people. Rufus was promoted to Airman First Class after completing coursework in Apprentice Law Enforcement and Security Police Tactical Training. He also earned honors for his conduct during overseas service and received a ribbon for Small Arms Expert Marksmanship. He was honorably discharged in 1983. Among his fondest memories was his time stationed in Germany, where he developed a deep appreciation for the local culture, cuisine, and traditional German marching band music. During his service, he also represented the Air Force in both football and basketball.

After returning to civilian life, Rufus pursued his passion for law enforcement and public safety. He held various roles with boutique private security firms, Hunter College, and Paramount Pictures. His magnetic personality, expressive storytelling, sharp wit, and approachable nature set him apart. Rufus was well-known for his engaging stories—many of which involved celebrities he encountered during his time at Paramount.

Eventually, Rufus found his career home at the New York State Office of Mental Health, serving as a Safety Officer at Kingsboro Psychiatric Center. There, he mentored junior officers and built enduring friendships that extended well beyond the workplace.

A devoted sports enthusiast, Rufus enjoyed all sports but was especially passionate about the Las Vegas Raiders (formerly the Oakland Raiders) and the Chicago Bulls. His home was filled with memorabilia honoring his favorite teams, players—especially Michael Jordan—and iconic sports moments. He was also an avid collector of baseball cards, comic books, sports action figures,

and memorabilia. One of his greatest joys was visiting the Pro Football Hall of Fame alongside his father and siblings—a lifelong dream fulfilled.

He also loved music, from rock to Bach. At any time of day, you might find him listening to Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor, Aerosmith’s Walk This Way, Janet Jackson’s What Have You Done for Me Lately, or Ray Charles’s Georgia. The range of his musical interests was limitless.

Rufus is survived by his father, Rufus Banks Sr.; his sister, Roslyn Banks; his brothers, Russell Banks and Kevin Banks (Glynis Banks); and his children: Leah Banks (Phyllis Jones), Courtney Banks (Carla Carter), Marcus Mundy (Marjorie Mundy), and Tiffany Parker (Annette Efferson). He is also survived by his grandchildren: Meah Henry, Kaylee Shaw, and Brooke Oatman; as well as a host of family and friends, including his best friend, Kevin DeCarmo.

Rufus’s legacy lives on through the lives he touched—with his service, his humor, his strength, and his heart. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A memorial service for Rufus will be held Wednesday, April 30, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at McEwen Funeral Service-Mint Hill Chapel, 7428 Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Charlotte, NC 28227.