Nathaniel Banks

Nathaniel “Skin” Banks entered his heavenly home on Sunday, June 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of his cherished children and grandchildren. He was born on November 21, 1943, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Nathaniel was the beloved son of the late James and Gertrude Banks. He grew up in Rock Hill and was educated in its public schools, proudly graduating from Emmett Scott High School as a member of the Class of 1962.

Nathaniel answered the call to serve his country after high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army in November 1962. He later dedicated himself to the U.S. Army Reserve, serving faithfully for 31 years in units such as the 391st Engineering Company in Greenville, the 83rd Artillery Unit in Rock Hill, and the 12th Chemical Company in York. His distinguished service culminated in his retirement as First Sergeant in 1994.

Nathaniel married the love of his life in 1964, Norma Hoyles Banks. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised three daughters with love, faith, and strength.

Nathaniel spent 16 years at JP Stevens before transitioning to Duke Energy’s Catawba Nuclear Station, where he worked from June 1982 until his retirement in March 2010.

Education was a lifelong pursuit for him, and in 2012 - at the age of 68 - he fulfilled his dream of earning a Liberal Arts degree in Religious Studies from Clinton College, an accomplishment that brought him great pride.

Nathaniel was a devoted member of Nazareth Baptist Church, where he faithfully served in the Gospel Chorus, Hymn Choir, and Men’s Choir. He also held the esteemed role of Deacon, later becoming Chairman of the Deacon Board, exemplifying his deep commitment to faith and service.

In his free time, he found joy in shopping, landscaping his home, and sharing his gift of song with churches and audiences throughout the community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and service that will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Left to cherish his loving memories, are his daughters, Lavetta Denise White (Paul) and Chanta Marie Banks; grandchildren, Keeardo Banks of Rock Hill, SC, Jasmine White of Charlotte, NC, Patrick J. Banks of Rock Hill, SC, Kwavontae P. White (Karyli) of Clover, SC, Amron J. Craig, and Rashad C. Banks both of Rock Hill, SC; his siblings, Albert Banks (Elizabeth-Ann), Dorothy Porter, Luther Banks, Jack Banks; sisters-in-law, Ethel Banks, Naomi Thomas, Gladys Daniel (Jerome), Levonne McCullough (Charles), Freddie Pickett (Eddie), Garlin Hoyles, Connie Minton, Gloria Brown (Donald), Gail Cook (Marion), Pauline Byers (Joe), Katie Patterson (Sonny); brothers-in-law, William Hoyles and Dale Hoyles; great-grandchildren, KeAriah Banks, Sariah Banks, Ariene Banks, Nova Banks, Hudson White, and Kaiyzen Craig; special friend, Elaine C. Copeland; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends.