Birth date: Aug 19, 1953 Death date: Aug 11, 2025
Morris Banks, of Huntersville, NC passed away at his home on August 11, 2025 at age 71. Morris was born in Crawfordville, Ark. on August 19, 1953 to his loving parents--the late Norman L. Banks, Jr. and Mildred Salon Banks. Affe Read Obituary
Morris and I grew up in the community of Tucker Arkansas currently a population of 92, one of my first memories was playing on a raft in a bayou behind the home we would also swim there with his brothers, his father would cut my hair along with all his other brothers. A lot of fond memories, God took him from small beginnings to be able to work at a company like CBS he made us all proud. Rest on my brother see you in the morning.
William
Morris Banks was a brilliant dedicated photojournalist. He was also a dear friend. His Memory is a Blessing.
Morris and I worked together in Portland until he left to shine his talents on CBS News. Morris and his partner Richard Draper, through groundbreaking reporting, forced the City of Portland to acknowledge the growing gang problem.
When Mo and I went to Chicago to cover the NBA finals in 1992, Morris was unhappy to learn that the Bulls did not spend time with or interact with or uplift the black neighborhood where they played their games. He produced an award-winning piece that told that story.
When we were heading to Chicago, on the flight, Mo explained to me that he though he and his fellow photographers should be making anchor money. He was right.
My life is better because Morris was in it. I know I am not alone.
RIP friend.
As I offer my condolences to the family, my heart is broken. I loved Morris Banks. At CBS Newspath Morris was my partner and protector. He became my brother and confidant. While on the road we solved the world’s problems and sang backup for Aretha Franklin blasting her songs as loud as a Ford Expedition’s radio would allow.
And we laughed until it hurt.
To the family, I offer my love and prayers and gratitude. Thank you for sharing Morris with us. He loved you dearly. May his memory be an eternal blessing.
Aleen Sirgany
