Gary Bankston

Gary Bankston of Foley, Alabama passed away peacefully on November 8, 2026 surrounded by loving family members. He was 80.

Gary was born on October 23, 1946 in Opelika, Alabama, to the late Arthur Bankston and Odell Berry Bankston. He grew up in the Beauregard community where he helped on the family farm and developed a strong work ethic. He graduated from Beauregard High School in 1965 where he was actively involved in sports such as basketball and football. Following graduation he joined the Army National Guard where he served for six years. He began a career as a delivery driver with United Parcel Service then moved into management where he dedicated himself to 32 years of service with them.

Gary was husband to Wanda Orr Bankston for 56 years. They married in1970 and together, they raised two children. He was a loving and protective father. In addition to being a Dad, Gary was also an amazing Papa to four grandchildren and two great grandchildren. All of his family brought him extreme joy and spending time with them was one of his favorite things. He cherished family gatherings and his presence at holidays and celebrations is something that will be greatly missed.

He is survived by his loving wife, Wanda Bankston; two children, Shenese Bankston Hall (Brent) of Dothan, AL, Casey Scott Bankston (Davida) of Elberta, AL; four grandchildren; Caleb Bankston (Sheny), Ashlyn Jones (Chandler), Peyton Hall (Reagan), and Parker Hall; two great grandchildren; Ziva Bankston and Callen Bankston; one sister; Nancy Cargill of Opelika, AL; and many other nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one half brother, Junior Bankston; one brother, Oscar Bankston; and two sisters, Geraldine Lipscomb and Myrtis Roughton.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, November 11,2026 with Wolfe Bayview Funeral Home in Foley, AL. Visitation will be from 11:00-12:00 at the funeral home followed by a graveside service at Pine Rest Cemetery at 12:30 in Foley, AL.

Rest in peace, dear husband, Dad and Papa. Your memory will live on in our hearts forever.