Jim Banks

Jim Banks, 77, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2026, at his home in Epsom, New Hampshire, surrounded by his loving family. Born on April 13, 1949, and raised in Weare, New Hampshire, Jim lived a full and meaningful life defined by service to his country, devotion to family and friends, a strong work ethic, and a deep love of nature and animals.

Jim graduated from Weare High School in 1968, where he was a strong, talented, and enthusiastic athlete, participating in baseball, basketball, and soccer—all 5'3" of him. His high school yearbook listed his future intentions as serving in the U.S. Navy and someday owning a liquor store—a glimpse of the independent spirit, determination, and sense of humor that would remain with him throughout his life.

Jim proudly served his country in Vietnam as a member of the elite 82nd Airborne Division of the United States Army. He received numerous medals and honors for his service, including the Purple Heart. His military service was an important part of his life, and he carried that service with great pride.

Following his military service, Jim dedicated his working years to the State of New Hampshire as a carpenter. He was a talented craftsman whose skills and generosity benefited countless family members, friends, neighbors, and others throughout the years. Many of the wishing wells Jim built with his own hands can still be found today, serving as lasting reminders of his craftsmanship and his willingness to help others.

Jim loved the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting and fishing and found tremendous happiness living among the birds, animals, and nature he loved. More than 30 years ago, Jim and the love of his life, Sandy Poirier, made their home along the Suncook River in Epsom, where he was able to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and abundant wildlife that meant so much to him.

Animals also held a special place in Jim’s heart. For many years, he volunteered at Live & Let Live Farm, giving his time to a place that reflected his compassion and love for animals. His beloved hunting dog, Taz, was his faithful companion for many years. Later in life, his golden doodle, Honey, became his constant companion and brought him immeasurable joy.

Those who knew Jim will remember a man who showed his love through action. He was devoted to his family and friends and was the kind of person who was always willing to help—often the first to lend a hand when someone needed him. His generosity extended to family, friends, neighbors, and even people he had just met. He freely gave his time, his skills, and whatever else he could offer.

His neighbors would often see him out working in his yard, enjoying his property, or heading to or from the mailbox on his tractor. These familiar sights captured the simple life Jim loved: being close to home, surrounded by nature, animals, and the people and places that mattered most to him.

Jim was the youngest of a large family. He was predeceased by his parents and all of his siblings, with the loss of his oldest sibling occurring just a few short months ago.

Jim leaves behind his loving partner of more than 30 years, Sandy Poirier; Sandy’s children, Chris and Russan; and many cherished nieces, nephews, extended family members, friends, and neighbors whose lives were made better simply by knowing him.

Jim’s presence may no longer be beside us, but his strength, generosity, loyalty, kindness, laughter, and the countless memories he created will remain in our hearts. His legacy will not be measured only by the things he built with his hands, but by the many lives he touched along the way.

A Celebration of Jim’s Life will be held on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at 139 Old Francestown Road, Weare, NH. Family and friends are warmly invited to come together, share memories, tell stories, and celebrate the life of a truly incredible man.

In lieu of flowers or donations, the family asks that you carry on Jim’s incredible loving and generous spirit in the simplest way possible: a smile.

Jim would have liked that.