Jerald "Jerry" Kenneth Banks, 79, of Republic, MO passed away Tuesday, February 20, 2024. He was born February 24, 1944, to Kenneth and Eva Banks in Joliet, IL.

Jerry attended Lockport Township high school in Illinois and was a member of the 1962 graduating class. He went on to further his education and graduated from Joliet Junior College in 1964. After completing his education, Jerry enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country during the Vietnam War from 1966 to 1967. After his service, he transitioned to serving his community as a police officer for the city of Lockport Township, IL. A move to Missouri in 1980 brought about a career change and he gained employment in the Human Resources Department at Zenith. Jerry would eventually retire from Missouri State University. He later became a member of the Free Masonry.

He enjoyed his time going to Vietnam Memorial events and visiting with other Veterans.

Jerry was known to all as a caring and compassionate person. He had a contagious sense of humor. He enjoyed painting, art, gardening and he loved the "good old" rock-n-roll of the 60s and 70s.

In his later years, Jerry enjoyed the loving companionship of his life partner, Bev Lange. They shared the love of travel and journeyed to places like Turkey, Ireland twice, Slovenia and Italy. She cared for him every day until his last. Jerry shared a special relationship with his children and grandchildren, Chance and Brooke Quinlan, with another granddaughter expected shortly. He loved life, his dogs, and his family dearly.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara Jo Banks (married in 1966) of Gibson City, IL; and brothers, Larry and Gary Banks.

Jerry is survived by his life partner, Beverly Lange of Republic, MO; his children, Tracy Banks of Panama City, FL, Benjamin Banks and wife Leisa of Springfield, MO, Emily Quinlan of Willard, MO and Joshua Banks of Springfield, MO; his grandchildren, Ryan Wardlaw, Chanse Quinlan, Makayla Quinlan, Dustin Banks, Clifford Banks, Ashely Tiger, Brennan Banks, Tanner Banks, and Drew Quinlan; five great grandchildren; and his sister, Patricia Reed of Springfield, MO.

May his memory and life be eternal.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:30 pm, Friday, March 8 at Hood United Methodist Church in Republic, MO. A Graveside service will follow at 3:00 pm at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery with full military honors. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Rescue One. https://rescueonespringfield.com/ways-to-donate/

Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO.