I will never forget you nicknaming me Herbie! My last name is Hancock and every time you seen me it was “Hey Herbie”!  I will never forget you telling me that helping those in need is the root to being a blessing! I’m am heartbroken to hear your gone! But thankful to have encountered you and will keep your legacy alive! Forever HMS Club and MVC Alumni! I made you a promise that I will get my Masters in Social work and one day be a professor at MVC following in your footsteps teaching human services to the generations after me! I’m on my way Professor! I graduate with my MSW Spring 2027! I promise to make you proud and will forever Love you Professor Banks!!

James was always a wonderful neighbor. I'm going to miss seeing him on his walks. My deepest condolences to his family. James, you will be missed. 
Love,
The Trujillo Family

A mentor. 
A teacher. 
A father figure.  
A friend. 
A beacon of compassionate truth, wisdom, and spicy attitude. Trips back to town always included a wondering about your wellbeing; since retirement floated you into unreachable shores. A pass by your neighborhood included a sparkle in the eye and deep breathes from the heart; reminded of your impact on my life, the shared memories, and now your legacy. 

It is a privilege to have known you and with deep grief to know you have transitioned. 

Sending love to your daughter, your wife, your family and friends, and to all who get the honor to say see you on the otherside.

With love - Jennifer Be

I am deeply grateful to have had the privilege of learning from one of the most incredible professors I’ve ever met. He wasn’t just an educator , he was a mentor, a motivator, and someone who truly believed in his students.

He always told me I was capable of more. Even when I felt overwhelmed or unsure of myself, he reminded me that I was going to be very successful in life. His confidence in me helped build my own.

He encouraged me to step into leadership and pushed me to become Vice President of the HMS Club. He reminded me to advocate for myself and to take my education in social work seriously. Because of him, I learned to speak up for myself, to believe that my voice mattered, and to pursue this field with confidence and purpose.

He used to call me “Games,” a nickname he made from my original last name, Gamez. It may have seemed small, but to me it meant that he saw me. I wasn’t just another student in his class , I was someone he believed in personally.

I had the honor of meeting him once at his favorite place, Dairy Queen (picture taken at DQ) and sharing a sweet treat together. It was a simple moment, but one I will always cherish. That memory now feels even more special  a reminder of his warmth and kindness beyond the classroom.

His encouragement, belief, and heart for his students left a lasting impact on my life. I carry his words with me as I continue my journey in social work, determined to live up to the success he always knew I could achieve.

Thank you for believing in me. I promise to make you proud. Rest peacefully. 🤍

Thank you Prof Banks for always making feel at ease with finishing school after 40 years. You always calmed my fears as retiree going back to school.  He  had each students back and believed in our future.  It was a true honor and privilege to serve on the HMS board.  Your jokes and wit got us all through your classes which prepared us to soar higher and pursue our dreams.  He always called me Diana Ross when I walked into class which always put a smile on my face. He called me out to where he thought, well knew, where in service I belonged and was right.  He became a wonderful friend after I graduated and I appreciated every piece of advice. HMS club members, let us honor his memory and legacy with our commitment to keep giving the best community service we can give.  Rest in eternal peace my friend.

I am deeply saddened to hear of Mr. Banks’ passing. He was my mentor and truly one of the best professors I ever had. He offered guidance and empowerment at a time when I needed it most. His compassion and dedication never went unnoticed. No matter how busy he was, he always made time during office hours for others and myself.
He challenged me to step outside my comfort zone and helped me grow out of my shell because he believed in me before I believed in myself. From the very first day in his class, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be, pursuing a path in social work and human services.
Thank you, Mr. Banks, for your conversations, your humor, and your steady support. I can still hear your deep, warm laugh. I find comfort in believing you are reunited with your beloved wife in heaven. My condolences to his family and his daughter Jasmine. Until we meet again — Rest in Power!
With gratitude always,
Your Chelita, Laura Torres. C/O 2009.

With heartfelt sympathy and deep respect, I offer my sincerest condolences during this time of loss.

As my professor and mentor, you were far more than an educator....you were a guiding light. You saw potential in me before I fully saw it in myself. Your belief in my abilities, your encouragement during difficult moments, and your constant push for excellence helped shape not only my academic journey, but the person I am becoming.

Your impact reaches far beyond the classroom. The lessons you taught, the standards you set, and the confidence you instilled will remain with me always. Because of you, I strive to be better, to work harder, and to lead with integrity and compassion.

Thank you for believing in me. Your legacy lives on through the many lives you have touched.

With gratitude and sympathy,
Yvonne

OBITUARY

James Douglas Banks

September 24, 1955 – February 11, 2026

Miller Jones Mortuary and Crematory

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