Donald Lynn Banks, a longtime resident of Middletown, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the age of 70. Born on July 30, 1955, in Hazard, Kentucky, Don lived a life full of family, friendship, and quiet dignity, leaving behind a legacy cherished by all who knew him.
Don was the son of Elbert "Buck" Banks and Aliene Lee Banks, both of whom preceded him in death. Growing up in Kentucky, Don learned the value of hard work and the importance of family—lessons that would guide him throughout his life. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Elbert "Bucky" (Carol Sue) Banks Jr., and his brother-in-law, David Coffey, two individuals who played significant roles in his formative years and adulthood.
For nearly five decades, Don shared his life with his beloved wife, Cindy Janeway Banks. Their marriage, spanning 49 years, stood as a testament to enduring love and partnership. Together, they built a family that became the center of Don’s world. He is survived by his daughters, Katie Banks and Sally (David) Banks-Guffey, and his son, Andy (Holly) Banks. Each child, in their own way, reflects the values and kindness Don embodied. His cherished grandson, Avery Banks, was a special joy in his later years, bringing laughter and light into his home.
Family ties ran deep for Don. He is also survived by his sister, Carol Coffey, and his brother, Gary (Connie) Banks, both of whom shared in the joys and challenges of growing up in a close-knit household. The family bond extended well beyond immediate relatives, encompassing many extended family members and a wide circle of dear friends, all of whom will miss Don’s steady presence and warm smile.
According to Journal-News, Don’s passing has left a void not only within his family but also among friends and acquaintances who valued his kindness, wisdom, and unwavering support. Whether it was a word of encouragement or a helping hand, Don was always there for those who needed him.
To honor Don’s memory, a visitation will be held on February 16, 2026, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Anderson Funeral Home Franklin, located at 1357 East 2nd Street, Franklin, Ohio 45005. The funeral service will immediately follow at 4:00 p.m. at the same location. In keeping with Don’s wishes, cremation will take place following the service, with no burial. This decision, as reported by Legacy.com, reflects Don’s practical nature and his desire for simplicity at the end of life.
Don’s journey began in Hazard, Kentucky—a place known for its rolling hills and tight-knit communities. Born into a family that valued honesty, hard work, and compassion, Don carried these lessons with him throughout his life. He moved to Ohio as a young man, where he would eventually settle in Middletown and raise his family. His roots in Kentucky remained an important part of his identity, and he often spoke fondly of his early years and the people who shaped him.
Throughout his life, Don was known for his gentle demeanor and steadfast loyalty. Friends and family recall his willingness to listen, his thoughtful advice, and his quiet sense of humor. He was a man who preferred actions over words, often letting his deeds speak for themselves. Whether it was supporting his children in their endeavors or being a reliable friend, Don’s presence was a constant source of comfort and reassurance.
Don’s marriage to Cindy Janeway Banks was a cornerstone of his life. Together, they navigated the ups and downs of nearly fifty years, building a home filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect. Their partnership was marked by shared values and a commitment to family, qualities that those closest to them admired deeply. Cindy, their children, and grandson Avery were the pride and joy of Don’s life, and he never missed an opportunity to express his love for them.
As a father, Don was both nurturing and firm, guiding his children with a steady hand and an open heart. Katie, Sally, and Andy remember him as a source of wisdom and encouragement, always ready to offer advice or simply listen. His role as a grandfather to Avery brought him immense happiness, and he cherished every moment spent with his grandson.
Don’s siblings, Carol Coffey and Gary (Connie) Banks, shared a lifetime of memories with him. Their bond was forged in childhood and strengthened over the years, surviving the inevitable challenges that life brings. The loss of their brother, Elbert "Bucky" Banks Jr., and brother-in-law David Coffey, was deeply felt by the family, but Don’s presence provided comfort and stability during difficult times.
Friends and extended family members remember Don as someone who always had time for others. His generosity, patience, and sense of humor made him a beloved figure in the community. Whether attending family gatherings, lending a hand to a neighbor, or simply sharing a story, Don left a lasting impression on those around him.
The upcoming visitation and funeral service at Anderson Funeral Home Franklin will offer family, friends, and the wider community an opportunity to come together, share memories, and celebrate Don’s life. The choice of cremation, with no burial, reflects Don’s straightforward approach and his wish for a simple, dignified farewell.
As noted by Legacy.com, those wishing to pay their respects can sign the guestbook, sharing condolences and memories that will provide comfort to the family in the days ahead. The outpouring of support from the community is a testament to the impact Don had on the lives of so many.
While Don’s physical presence is gone, his legacy endures in the lives he touched. His family, friends, and all who knew him will carry forward the values he exemplified—kindness, humility, and a deep commitment to those he loved. In the quiet moments and shared stories, Don’s memory will continue to inspire and guide those who were fortunate enough to know him.
As the family prepares to gather and honor Don’s life, there is comfort in the knowledge that his spirit lives on in the hearts of those he leaves behind. His was a life well-lived, marked by love, loyalty, and a quiet strength that will not be forgotten.