Debra Ann Banks

DEBRA ANN BANKS (NEE BASS), daughter of the late Mable and Thomas Bass, was born on October 3, 1956 in Baltimore, MD. She departed this life on April 13, 2023. She met and married Jerome Banks and from this union four children were born. Debbie, as she was affectionately known, was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System, and went on to further her education at BCCC (formerly known as CCB). After college, Debbie began working for various prominent employers, including AAA Mid-Atlantic and the State of Maryland’s Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, from which she retired after 20 years of dedicated service. Debbie was a member of Liberty Grace Church of God, where she took the right hand of fellowship and was baptized in the Christian faith. During her active time with the church, she served on the Nurse’s Board. Debbie was full of life and had a radiant personality, with the kindest heart! She enjoyed many pastimes including cooking, gardening, playing cards and taking impromptu trips to the casino with her sisters and her aunt Ruthie; but perhaps her greatest joy was family! She loved hosting family gatherings for the holidays and spent many weekends shopping and “running around” with her sister Chairese. Debbie’s love wasn’t limited to her relatives, she was a pillar in the Edmondson Village community when she took the responsibility of leading the Edmondson Village Blue Devils Marching Band in the late 80s/early 90s; giving youth of the community a safe and positive way to remain productive. Years after the Blue Devils disbanded, Debbie assisted with a newly formed marching band in the neighborhood – the Edmondson Village Steppers (EVS). She touched the hearts of many and was referred to as “Aunt Debbie” by members of both bands, and many kids throughout the neighborhood. After the parades, Debbie could be found at Lyndhurst Park assisting with the neighborhood basketball league; particularly known for preparing her special “Debbie burgers” and many other delicious meals. She had a passion for people and would help anyone – she was the epitome of a hardworking, selfless woman! Debbie leaves to cherish her memory: sons, Shamar (Evon) and Jerome and Damon; daughter, Chanell (Kendall); grandchildren, Davon, Dawan, Dejah, Dejahna, Kendall/Tang, Jalen, Eric, Damon Jr., Dai’Yon, Kamden, Kollin, Bella and Kadence; great-grandchildren, Peyton and Mulan; siblings, Delmar, Darnell (Gail), Sharon, Darlene, Kevin, Dana and Chairese; uncle, Richard; aunts, Sheila and Ruthie; sisters-in law, Jacqueline, Connie and Sarah; god-sister, Yolanda; close friend, Cheryl; and a host of nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. Debbie was loved by many but maintained special relationships with those who voluntarily assisted in her care; especially nieces, Dawn, Shayvonne and Bria; as well as daughter-figures Tania, Senaah, Anna, Tianne and Wendy; grandsons, Tang and Jalen; and Aunt Ruthie. Debbie was preceded in death by sisters Gwen, Laverne and Cynthia, sister-in-law Joanne, and brothers-in law James and Douglass.

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Debra Ann Banks

October 3, 1956 - April 13, 2023