James H. Banker, Sr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of James H. Banker Sr., a loving husband, father, and active member of St. Henry’s Catholic community. Jim peacefully passed away at the age of 80 on Monday, December 2, 2024, at his home in Nashville, TN. 

Originally from Mobile, Alabama (which he jokingly called "LA" for Lower Alabama), Jim was known for his kindness, excellent salesmanship, and deep devotion to his family. Jim and his wife, Lydia, both Auburn University graduates, fostered a strong Auburn legacy, with all four of their children earning degrees from the university. He cherished time spent fishing with family and friends and, in recent years, spent much of his time to prayer with Lydia. Jim was also a supportive and compassionate member of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). He tried to live his life one day at a time and remained clean and sober for forty years. Jim would tell you he attributed his success in AA to his strong devotion to God and the love and support of his wife, AA sponsors, friends, and family. If you spent any time at all with Jim, you would know that he was most passionate about his Catholic faith. Jim converted to Catholicism before marrying Lydia. One of his favorite things to do was introduce and sponsor friends into the Catholic Church. He was the nicest guy you’d ever want to meet and was a generous friend to all. 

Jim is preceded in death by his daughter, Becky Lewis; parents, George and Doris Banker; and brother George Banker. He is survived by his devoted wife, Lydia, children Louise Larkin, Anthony Banker (Amanda), and James Banker Jr. (Cindy), and eleven grandchildren. Gracie, Shelby, and Beverly Larkin; Emory, Henry, and Ella Banker; Otto and Phillip Lewis; and Jacob, Clare and Giles Banker; his brother Tommy Banker (Pam); and sister, Angela Tracey (Chuck) along with Nieces and Nephews.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 9, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Harpeth Hills Funeral Home, located at 9090 Highway 100, Nashville, TN 37221. 

A second visitation will take place on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 10:40 AM, followed by a Rosary at 10:40 AM with the Funeral Mass beginning at 11:00 AM at St. Henry Catholic Church, located at 6401 Harding Pike, Nashville, TN 37205. The burial will follow immediately at Harpeth Hills Memory Gardens.