Willie Banks was a gospel singer, songwriter, and the founder of his backing band, The Messengers. He was known for his soulful voice and his uplifting songs of faith and hope. He had a successful career that spanned over four decades, and he was nominated for a Grammy Award in 1980 for his hit song “For The Wrong I’ve Done”
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A Tragic Accident
However, Banks’ life was not without tragedy. On July 6, 1981, he and his band were involved in a horrific car accident near Atlanta, Georgia. Their van went off the road and plunged down a 50-foot embankment, killing one band member, Willie “Bill” Badger, and leaving Banks critically injured
Banks was trapped in the wreckage for several days before he was rescued. He suffered severe injuries, including a broken neck, a collapsed lung, and internal bleeding. He underwent multiple surgeries and spent months in the hospital and in rehabilitation. He later gave an account of the accident in a sermonette when he re-recorded his song “God’s Goodness” in 1982
A Remarkable Recovery
Despite the odds, Banks made a remarkable recovery and returned to his music career. He signed with Malaco Records in the mid-1980s and released several albums, including “Look at the Blessings” in 1986 and “Masterpiece” in 1989. He continued to perform and record until his death in 1993
Willie Banks Cause of Death: Heart Failure
Willie Banks died on February 1, 1993, at the age of 63. According to his obituary, he passed away at the University Medical Center in Jackson, Mississippi, after suffering from heart failure
He was survived by his wife, Dorothy, and his six children. He was buried at the Autumn Woods Memorial Park in Jackson
A Lasting Legacy
Willie Banks left behind a lasting legacy as one of the most influential and beloved gospel singers of his generation. He was inducted into the USA National Track & Field Hall of Fame in 1999 and the American Gospel Quartet Convention Hall of Fame in 2001
His songs have been covered by many artists, such as The Blind Boys of Alabama, The Mighty Clouds of Joy, and The Canton Spirituals. His music continues to inspire and touch the hearts of millions of fans around the world
Willie Banks cause of death was a sad loss for the gospel music community, but his spirit lives on through his music and his message of love and faith
