Ernest "Ernie" Banks, Jr.

Ernest "Ernie" Banks, Jr., age 77, of North Judson, passed away on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at Northwest Health Starke Hospital in Knox, Indiana.

Ernie was born on May 18, 1948, in Taulbee (Breathitt County), Kentucky, the son of Ernie Sr. and Gracie (Mullins) Banks.

A well-known auctioneer in the area, Ernie also worked as a meat salesman to grocery stores throughout Northern Indiana. He was also a licensed real estate agent. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during the Vietnam Era. 

Ernie never met a stranger. Wherever he traveled, he could easily make conversation with anyone. He loved going to auction sales, being the center of attention, traveling, and most of all, spending time with family and friends.

Survivors include two daughters, Shayla (Alonzo) Shepherd, of Sellersburg, Indiana, and Lesley (Eric Craft) Banks, of Knox, Indiana, five grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. Also surviving are two sisters, Helen Back, of Knox, Indiana, and Mary Ellen Marcum, of Belpre, Ohio. Ernie is also survived by his companion of many years, Sherli Simousek, of North Judson.

In addition to his parents, Ernie and Gracie, he was preceded in death by two brothers, Garson Banks & Harold Banks, and a sister, Ethel Banks.

Funeral services will be conducted on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 2 p.m. at Braman & Bailey Funeral Home in North Judson with Rev. Bruce Elkins officiating. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until the time of services on Tuesday at Braman & Bailey Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Highland Cemetery in North Judson, where military graveside services will be conducted by American Legion Post 92.

Memorial contributions may be made in Ernie's name to the charity of the donor's choice. 

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