Shourronn Emmalyn Banks

Shourronn Emmilyn Banks was the heartbeat of her family. Steel spined, curious, passionate, and a hard worker, she was as complex as the recipes she would pour over and create. She lived with a measure of spiciness and love. That delicate balance that she offered in her own way created a strong foundation for her family to thrive. Caring for others was in Shourron’s DNA. A lesson she learned both by being the daughter of the late James Robert and Beulah Lucille Banks and the eldest sister. Shourronn was born on March 9, 1947 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At an early age, Beulah taught her to take care of her younger sisters, Marsha (proceeded in death), Jesseia, and Cheryl. Beulah’s way was a generational practice layered with compassion, empathy, offering shelter, and cooking with love. Each one of these threads helped to shape Shourronn into the woman we all grew to love. Shourronn was educated in the Philadelphia Public School System. She graduated from William Penn High School, class of 1965. Upon graduating from high school, Shourronn’s dream was to become a Registered Nurse. She first served in the US Army Reserves as an LPN. Continuing her education, she obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work from Temple University. Still undeterred, she went back to school to become an RN by enrolling in Episcopal Hospital’s nursing program. Upon graduation, she began her career as a Registered Nurse, which she continued until she retired in March of 2012. “Don’t be afraid if it doesn’t turn out right or doesn’t live up to your expectations this is also in life, so you just try, try, again or move on but never give up.” – Shourronn Banks Shourronn was a devoted mother to her daughters Karen Williams and Christina Banks. As a mother she believed in and encouraged the education of her daughters. She also instilled in them her passion for caretaking, which led to them to work in the medical profession as well. In 1988, Shourronn married a longtime friend, Wayne Hall (proceeded in death). Shourron’s friendships One of the areas of her life that brought her joy was her friendships. Shourronn treasured and maintained strong bonds with her friends of over 50 years - Karen Jordan, Carolyn Perry, and Geraldine Pemberton. Sharon Yeager was a like a sister, confidant, and best-friend to Shourronn as well. Shourronn was a Godmother to her children. Movies, traveling, and most of all cooking were Shourronn’s passions. She especially loved to travel, come home with a new dish to recreate or a recipe to try. Cooking and hearing people rave over her dishes brought her joy. Cooking was definitely her gift. Shourronn had a strong faith in Jesus Christ. She accepted Jesus Christ as her personal savior and joined Mt. Air Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop Ernest C. Morris Sr. Shourronn left this earthly plain on July 10, 2022. She was proceeded in death by her sister Marsha Harvey. She is survived by her mother’s siblings Marguerite Janey, Ruth Johnson, Thomas Wilmer Janey (Williemae) whom she loved. She leaves behind her sisters Jesseia Malson (Bruce) and Cheryl Banks; Daughters - Karen Williams and Christina Banks; Grandchildren - Gregory Banks, Crystal Banks, Michael Banks, Khaylah Banks; Great grandchildren - Marcus Banks, Elise Henry, Londyn Henry, and Maddison Bizzell; two nieces, three nephews, a host of great nieces, great nephews, family, and friends.

Shourronn Emmalyn Banks

March 9, 1947 - July 10, 2022