Coping with Grief
We would like to offer our sincere support to anyone coping with grief. Enter your email below for our complimentary daily grief messages. Messages run for up to one year and you can stop at any time. Your email will not be used for any other purpose.
On Sunday, September 21, 2025, Thomas Claude Banks, Jr. peacefully departed this life and entered his eternal resting place.
He was preceded in death by his father, Thomas Claude Banks, Sr. He is survived by his wife, Sandra; son, Clifton (Chelsie); brothers, Phil Banks (Kim) &family, Richie Banks (Kim) &family, and Patrick Banks; Sister-in-law Karen Byrd (Mike) & family; and his mother Donna Banks.
Tom devoted 30 years of his professional life to serving and protecting his community through law enforcement with Buncombe and Madison Counties. After “retiring”, Tom went to work with Commonwealth Home Health Care ensuring our Veterans received the services and care they needed and deserved. Outside of work, he dedicated his time and love to his wife of 37 years, Sandra, with whom he enjoyed traveling anywhere her heart desired; their son, Clifton, of whom he was immensely proud of and departed much of his wisdom; and his daughter-in-law, Chelsie-whom he proudly considered the daughter he never had and was always by his side, caring for him and making sure he always had someone to banter with. His grandchildren were his pride and joy: Corbin, his “little buddy”; Caydence, his “skunk”; and Kiley. He ensured they were always cared for, no matter what.
Tom was a force to be reckoned with-his presence was always known. When he wasn’t solving everyone’s problems with logic and knowledge, he could often be found engaging in lively conversations and “politicking” with anyone and everyone. His kindness and compassion were unmatched, expressed in his own unique way. Fiercely protective of those he loved, Tom made sure you always knew where you stood with him.
Tom will be deeply missed by all who loved him. While we feel the void of his absence, we carry his spirit with us wherever we go.
Honoring Tom’s request, there will be no scheduled visitation or funeral services. There will be celebration of life held at a later date, details to follow. The Banks family would like to extend their warmest thanks and love to the staff at The Greens at Weaverville for the excellent care they provided Tom in his final days.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas Claude Banks Jr., please visit our floral store.