Annie Julia Banks was born February 26, 1924, the sixth child of the late Minnie and Gus Hawkins, Sr. in Greensboro, Alabama. Being the oldest girl, Annie enjoyed telling the story of standing on a box at the age of 6 assisting her mom with preparing meals for her younger siblings.

Annie attended Industrial High School in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. She was accompanied to her junior and senior prom by Willie Andrew (Gene) Banks who later on would ask for her hand in marriage. Annie and Gene were married August 19, 1946. To this union, Annie welcomed Gene’s son, Willie Andrew. After her marriage, she came to Cleveland in 1948 where she was gainfully employed as a domestic worker until she retired.

Annie was a devoted woman of God, a faithful Christian. She attended the Church of God, which became Mt. Pleasant Church of God, and now Fellowship Church of God. Annie has been a faithful member throughout all these years. For over 20 years, she served as an Usher Board member. She taught Sunday school for elementary-aged children. In addition, she served on the hot meals team by assisting with the preparation and serving of hot meals to feed the hungry and homeless in the Mt. Pleasant community.

Affectionately known as, “The Cookie Lady,” Annie baked and distributed chocolate chip and raisin cookies every Sunday. And, always had peppermints to hand out to anyone who wanted them. In 2023, Fellowship Church of God recognized Annie as the oldest member attending the church and for her faithfulness in serving in various ministries.

As a 50-year resident in her ward, in the early years, Annie joined the City of Cleveland’s “Neighborhood Watch Program” to rid her neighborhood of vandalism and crime. She also continued her civic duty as a registered voter by going to the polls to vote in the primary and general elections. Annie always said, “I want to continue voting for as long as I live.” She cast her final vote at the age of 100.

Annie regularly attended two exercise classes five days a week, for one hour each day. Lovingly referred to as, “First Lady” in one class and “Ms. Banks” in the other, Annie would outlast the best of them. Annie attended class until the tender age of 101.

Annie often boasted about never using a walker, wheelchair, or cane and credited exercise as the reason why. She attributed her longevity to a good Christian living, daily exercise, and God’s grace.

Annie was loved by many and her legacy will live on forever through the many catchphrases she shared, and the memories of those who had the opportunity to know her.

Annie was preceded in death by her parents, Minnie and Gus, Sr.; husband, Willie Andrew; siblings, Elizabeth, Margaret, Martha, Rosa Lee, Minnie, Earnest, James, George, Arthur, Gus Jr., William, Walter, and Marvin.

Annie leaves to cherish her memory, two sisters Mary Bradley and Mae Frances Neal; a countless number of nieces and nephews. And, a host of friends.

“I know that I can make it. I know that I can stand. I know whatever comes my way, my life is in God’s hands.” ~ Annie’s favorite saying