It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Michael Banks, age 63 - a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend whose warmth, laughter, and selfless heart left an unforgettable mark on everyone he met.

A Chesterfield County, Virginia, native. Born to the late Mildred Bonner and James Spergeon Swann, and raised by his devoted grandmother, the late Joanne Banks, Michael lived a life rooted in love, hard work, and generosity. Whether he was under the hood of a car, strumming a tune on his guitar, or outside "just piddle paddling" with something, Michael found joy in the simple things - and he always found a way to share that joy with others.

Michael was a true people person - quick with a joke, a helping hand, or a story that would have you laughing for days. His sense of humor was infectious, his presence comforting, and his love for his family was unmatched. He had a way of making everyone feel welcome and seen, and it seemed that once you met him, you never forgot him. Whether you knew him for a moment or a lifetime, you were better for it.

He was the proud and loving father of Shatisha Gordon, Sharree Gordon, James Waller, Shianna Gordon, Sergio Gordon and Samiyah Gordon with the same deep love and care, embracing them as his own. He was a proud grandfather to his grandchildren: Kaden, Cairo, Kamari, J'Khai, and Jaliyah, and shared an equally deep bond with his bonus grandchildren: Cali, Novah, Sergio, Kyomi, and Raelyn.

Michael is survived by his ex-wife and devoted friend, Rosita Gordon and siblings, Yvonne Bowser, Sandra Banks, and Kenneth Bonner; and his sister-in-law Franchette Gordon. He also leaves to cherish his beloved nieces and nephews, Carl Bowser (deceased), Gwendolyn Bowser, Eddie Bowser, Jr., Bian Bowser, Latisa Banks, Arlisa Banks, Jerome Banks and Anthony Banks. He also leaves behind a host of loving and devoted family members and close friends - many of whom saw him not only as family, but as the one they can lean on for help. His family was his pride and joy, and he gave everything he had to those he loved. He was also a cherished brother and a loyal friend whose memory will be carried forward in countless stories and heartfelt laughter.

Michael's hands built more than engines - they built a legacy of love, laughter, loyalty, kindness, resilience and wisdom. Though gone too soon, his presence remains with us - in the songs he played, the lessons he taught, the cars he fixed, the car rides he loved to take, the pop ups at your door to chat, and the love he gave so freely.

He will be missed beyond words and remembered forever.

Services will be held 11:00 A.M., Friday, June 20, 2025, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, the Rev. Herbert Holly II, eulogist. The interment to follow at Mt. Minnis Memorial Park.

We invite all who knew and loved Michael to come together to share memories, music, and love in his honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you remember Michael in the way he lived - by spending time with your loved ones, working on a project (especially that involves a tool in hand), or simply doing something kind for someone else.

J.M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, watch the funeral services live online at www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com.