Earline Banks

Earline Braden Banks, age 81 and a long-time resident of Leeds, Alabama, met her Savior face-to-face on Sunday, October 19, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Earline is survived by her faithful husband of 61 years, Charles; daughter, Carol (David) Keith; son, Toby Banks; granddaughter, Hannah (Brandon) Hernandez; grandson, Hudson (Olivia) Keith; sisters, Jo (John) Mundy and Geraldine Rayburn; great-grandchildren, Harrison, Adeline and Leo; and a host of nieces and nephews. Earline is preceded in death by her parents, Ira and Mary Braden; brothers, Vernon (Kathleen) Braden, Johnny (Faye) Braden, Neal (Irene) Braden, and Junior (Toni) Braden; sisters, Margaret (JC) Kirby and Frances (Fred) Aldridge; brother-in-law, Frank Rayburn.

Earline can best be described as an obedient and faithful servant of her Savior. She lovingly served her church as the Director of Senior Adult ministries, commonly known as Happy Hearts. She was also instrumental in organizing meals for all types of events, such as the Hope Lodge ministry. Her skills were known to be wide, ranging from the best ballpark hamburgers to the greatest chicken and dumplings, made especially for coaches, family members and anyone who asked. No one ever left her house hungry!!

Earline loved big and loved well! She adored her family, but her “family” was known to include so many that were not related by blood or marriage. Her generous spirit encompassed all who needed a friend or a meal. Her home-canned jams, jellies, and relishes were known far and wide, always given in an act of love. Earline was also a compassionate caregiver, assisting family, friends and others in their times of need.

We grieve our loss of her companionship; but we rejoice in her home going, knowing that she is with her Savior and Lord. She is currently singing with the Saints, singing loudly her favorite hymns of praise in her alto voice!

The family will receive friends on Thursday night, October 23, 2025 from 5-7 PM at Cedar Grove Baptist Church. The celebration of life will be Friday, October 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM at Cedar Grove Baptist Church with burial to follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery in Leeds, Alabama.

Memorial contributions may be made to Cedar Grove Happy Hearts or the Hope Lodge Ministry in memory of Earline Banks. Online giving to cedargroveleeds.org or mail to:

Cedar Grove Baptist Church 2001 Cedar Grove Rd Leeds, AL 35094.