Herbert Andrew Shanks was guided home by God’s loving arms on March 19, 2018. He was born on April 26, 1936, to George and Helen Shanks (both deceased) and was raised in Aquasco, Maryland. He had 4 brothers and 3 sisters, but two of his brothers, George Nelson and Leonard Franklin, and one of his sisters, Blanche Virginia, were taken to Glory before him. He was referred to by his close family members as “Rabbit” a nickname given to him by his maternal grandfather, Daniel Hardy and also known as “Andy” and “Herb”. In 1958, he married Ardena Tyson (deceased) and of this union were born twin daughters, Andrea Phyllis and Angela Patrice.
For several years, Herbert worked as a mechanic throughout Washington, D.C. and Maryland. However, in 1972, he was hired by the United States House of Representatives and worked in the United States Capitol. He was responsible for ensuring the safety and security of members of the House of Representatives and their staff by controlling access to the Democratic Cloakroom. He was also the face of a warm welcome to all Members of Congress. After serving the Federal government for over 38 years, he retired in 2010. Upon his departure, he was honored by U.S. Representative Nancy Pelosi, of California, when she presented him with the flag that flew over the U.S. Capitol on the day of his retirement. This presentation was made on the House floor before the House of Representatives, where Herbert received standing ovations by all of the Congressional members that were present. This presentation aired live on CNN on May 28, 2010. Shortly after retiring, Herbert relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to be with his daughters and grandchildren.
Herbert had a feisty and humorous personality and was an avid car and motorcycle lover. As a young man, he enjoyed racing “Hot Rod” cars at ‘Bud’s Creek” and the Aquasco Speedway. Buying and repairing cars was one of his favorite past times. He spent his off time taking long distance rides on his motorcycle listening to Fats Domino, Chuck Berry, and other 1950s music. Herbert also loved watching old western movies while enjoying his favorite treat, peppermint candies. He enjoyed just being around his family, inclusive but not limited to, his brothers, sisters aunts, uncles and his cousins. He always lit up whenever there were children around. Four years ago, while attending church with his daughters, Herbert gave his life to Christ.
Herbert is survived by his daughters Andrea Knight (Mark) and Angela Shanks; his four grandchildren Christopher Knight (Carmella), Justin Jackson (Conethia), Jonathan Cooke (Diamond) and Brittany Knight (Eric); seven great-grandchildren Tyler, Brooklyn, and Mekhi Knight; Maliyah Bussey and Justus Jackson; Jonathan Jr. and Jade Cooke; his brothers Roy Elwood and Garnell Louis Shanks; his sisters Edna Mae Douglass and Berdina Anne Shanks; and a host nieces, nephews, cousins, and close friends.
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