Ronald Joe Banks

Ronald Joe Banks, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on May 4, 2023.

Joe was born in Shafter, California on December 13, 1939 to Bill and Winifred Banks. He graduated from Shafter High School in 1958. While there, he served as Senior Class President and excelled in both football and track. He joined the Coast Guard Reserves his senior year.

After graduation, Joe served 2 years in the Coast Guard stationed in San Diego. During his enlistment, he participated in many air/sea rescues. In 1960, he married his high school sweetheart, Gloria Morgan Banks, and began attending Bakersfield College where he earned his AA degree.

Joe and Gloria moved their family to Tulare in 1970. Joe was a businessman and active in the community. He owned and operated JB Food Mart, Scoreboard Pizza, and JB Distributing. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge for many years. He loved sponsoring youth sports teams as well as other youth activities.

Joe is survived by his wife of 62 years, Gloria Banks, and two children, a daughter Jolee Maffia, and a son and daughter-in-law Brad and Nancy Banks. Joe was beloved by his three grandsons, Broc Maffia and his wife Stephanie, John Ferreira and his wife Ashley, and Tyler Maffia. Joe was also a caring grandfather to five great grandchildren, Tori Maffia, Madalynn Maffia, Carter Maffia, Avery Ferreira and Parker Ferreira.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 19th at 11:00 at First Baptist Church, West Campus, located at 469 N. Cherry in Tulare.