Dr. Manely Elliott Banks II

BANKS, Dr. Manely Elliott II, 56, of Richmond, departed this life on Friday, August 21, 2009. He was preceded in death by his mother, Dorothy Banks. He is survived by his father, Manley Elliott Banks; his sister, Jacquelyn Banks; his wife, Donna and son, Micah. Dr. Banks was Associate Professor of Political Science in the L. D. Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. An active researcher and dedicated scholar, Dr. Banks contributed to books and various periodicals. He was a keen observer, and focused his interests on Urban Politics, which he taught along with American Government and Politics, Political Attitudes and Behavior, Voting Behavior, Political Attitudes of Black Americans, Voting Rights Issues, Issues of Democracy. Dr. Banks did his graduate work at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill and at the University of Texas, Austin. He is well-loved by colleagues and students alike. He was a superb advisor and mentor to many students, and was highly sought - even after their graduation from VCU for further guidance and personal advice. He served as Honor Code Coordinator for the College of Humanities and Sciences at VCU and on numerous university committees, including evaluations, promotions and Ph.D. dissertations. Dr. Banks also contributed his time and expertise by presenting numerous lectures and workshops to schools and various community and religious organizations. His professional affiliations include the American Political Science Association, the Southern Political Science Association, the National Conference of Black Political Scientists, Minority Scholars Concerned About Voting Rights Issues and the Black Education Association at VCU. A beloved husband, father, and friend, a passionate teacher and committed scholar, he is deeply missed by all whose lives he touched. A memorial service will be announced later to be held at Quioccasin Baptist Church, where he and his family are members.
This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.