Larry Edward Banks, Sr, passed away on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at Martinsburg VA Medical center. He was born November 10, 1946, in Winchester, VA., to the late Mary Louise Banks and Floyd Elliott Taper.

A proud Winchester native, Larry found purpose and adventure during his years of service as Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force from 1966-1972, including a Vietnam tour. Larry harbored a deep passion for cars, starting with a ‘57 Chevy, particularly enjoying the elegance of the Chevrolet Corvette models. But he attributed his military service to broadening his horizons and opening his eyes to the world around him.

After his military service, Larry worked as a flight attendant for Eastern Airlines. Effortlessly maneuvering through life, Larry believed ‘his gift to gab,’ coined by his mother, channeled his charm and allowed him to share his passion for music with the community. Jazz and blues resonated deeply with Larry, as he believed in the transformative power of music to transport listeners through time, painting vivid pictures of life that touched the soul.

Larry’s love for music led him to immerse himself in the local music scene. He worked as a DJ and performed with bands like the Rocking Crescents and Black Rock. Together with his friends, he founded B & B Productions, a platform that used music to support youth programs and established the annual Family Day weekend in the Winchester area, a tradition that still continues.

Larry’s love for music was a lifelong commitment. He shared his passion in his spare time, earning numerous accolades as the announcer, producer, and programmer of The Sunday Blue Notes with Larry B (where the ‘B’ was for the blues), on W.K.M.Z. 97.5, a show that ran for fifteen years. His dedication to the local music community was further demonstrated through his role as the original master of ceremonies for the Western Maryland Blues Festival, a position he held for over two decades.

Larry found fulfillment in various customer service roles in his later years, retiring from the Veterans Administration Pharmacy in 2013. He treasured countless happy moments throughout his life and celebrated each milestone with grace and gratitude.

Larry is survived by his sister, Carmen Crawford (Ray) of Winchester, VA; his children, Raymond Curry (Nancy) of Charles Town, WV, Larry Banks Jr. (Stacey) of Winchester, VA, Nikki Greaux (Richard) of Leesburg, VA, Marcel Banks (Amy) of Stephens City, VA, and Justin Banks (Kelly) of Clayton, NC; one nephew, nine grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by two grandchildren, Clayton and Syréa.

In honor of Larry’s memory, donations to your favorite charity are appreciated.

A private memorial service will be held for the immediate family.