Bettie Jean Banks

Life and Legacy Bettie Jean Banks was born on June 29, 1954, in Birmingham, Alabama, to the late Clara Scott Banks and Willie Banks. She was the fifth of ten siblings. From an early age, Bettie confessed to Christ and was baptized at Stewart Chapel CME Church, beginning a lifelong journey of faith. Bettie graduated from Holy Family High School in Birmingham as a proud member of the Class of 1972. She was a vibrant and social student, actively involved in numerous school clubs. As the captain of the cheerleading team, she brought energy and spirit to every event. Bettie was known for her warm personality, and her involvement in school-wide activities made her a beloved favorite among teachers and classmates alike. She continued her education at Lawson State Community College and later attended the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing. In the 1980s, Bettie relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, where she built a distinguished career at Emory University Hospital’s Department of Nursing as a Bed Placement Coordinator. She dedicated 37 years of service before retiring in July 2020, forming lifelong friendships along the way. In addition to her work in healthcare, Bettie pursued her passion for real estate, becoming a licensed agent and earning numerous accolades, including the prestigious Million Dollar Club award. She took great joy in helping others achieve homeownership, guiding family members, friends, and clients with care and expertise. Bettie was deeply devoted to her faith. She was a longtime member of St. Philip A.M.E. Church, where she served in multiple ministries, including the Lay Organization, Class Leaders, Sunday School, and the Nettie Lewis-Moore Missionary Society. She also dedicated time to the women and children’s homeless ministry. Additionally, Bettie was a proud and active member of Mae Lee Chapter #35 of the International Masons and Order of Eastern Star, an organization dear to her heart, especially as her mother, Clara Banks, was the founding member and Worthy Matron. Later in life, Bettie expanded her faith journey by joining Berea Apostolic Faith Church in Stone Mountain under the leadership of Pastor Edward C. Matheny. There, she continued to serve as a Sunday School leader, a coordinator for the Toys for Tots campaign, and a biblical teaching worship leader. On Tuesday, March 11, 2025, in the early morning hours, Bettie was called home to be with the Lord at Emory University Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Clara Scott Banks and Willie Banks, as well as her brother, James Banks, and sister, Velma Burroughs. Bettie leaves behind a legacy of love and faith. She is survived by her three sisters: Delores and Barbara of Birmingham, AL, and Angela of Snellville, GA; four brothers: Clyde of Brunswick, GA, Willie Earl (Vivian) of Camp Hill, AL, Anthony of Birmingham, AL, and Timothy of Lithonia, GA. She also leaves behind twelve cherished nieces and nephews, including her youngest niece, Kristine of Snellville, GA, who was especially dear to her and lovingly considered a daughter by those who knew them. Her uncle, Edward Scott of Birmingham, AL, was her beloved family historian. Additionally, she shared a special bond with Kia and her five children—Londyn, Landon, Kayden, Keynard, and Amari—whom she embraced as her own. Bettie Jean Banks lived a purpose-driven life, touching the hearts of all who knew her. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering faith will forever be remembered. The family thanks everyone for their love, support, and prayers as they celebrate the life of a truly remarkable woman. Celebration of Life Services for Bettie Banks will be held on Friday, March 21, 2025 at 11:00 AM. These services will be recorded and streamed live. If the event is interrupted at any time due to technical issues, the entire event will be uploaded and available to view later in the day. Please copy and paste the link to share, or simply click on the link to view the event. https://vimeo.com/event/4997927

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Bettie Jean Banks

June 29, 1954 - March 11, 2025