Obituary of Greyland Banks

Mr. Greyland Banks Greyland, affectionately known as “Dilly” was born to Gladys and Carl on October 17, 1955, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He transitioned from his earthly home surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, May 14, 2020, in Kalamazoo, MI, at the age of 64. Relocated with his mother to Battle Creek, MI, when he was young, and he remained there throughout the rest of his life. He attended Battle Creek Public Schools, and graduated from Battle Creek Central High, where he was an outstanding athlete, excelling in basketball, track, and football. After graduating from high school in 1974, Greyland attended Western Michigan University. Enlisted in the United States Army, where he dutifully served his country for several years until he was honorably discharged. After returning home, Greyland held employment with Kellogg’s Cereal, Heritage Chevrolet, Battle Creek Tile Company, and the City of Battle Creek. Yearning to live a spiritual life, Greyland found Christ and accepted his call to the minister, under the leadership of Rev. William Young, Jr. of Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church. As he continued growing spiritual, he also worship at Maranatha Original Church of God under the leadership of Pastor Geraldine T. Richardson. He was a God-fearing man and a prayer warrior not only in the church, but for family and friends. Love was always expressed from Greyland as he took delight in being a caring son, a loving nephew, a devoted father, a proud grandfather, and great grandfather. He also took pride in being a big brother to his siblings, an uncle to his nieces and nephews, an inspiration to his cousins and a helping hand to his many friends. He was loyal and dedicated to all! Affectionate and meek in spirit, yet a with a powerful presence, Greyland was well esteemed. He was loved by everyone who had the privilege of knowing him, and he left an impression on each life he touched. Noble generosity and unyielding love was his way of reaching your heart. His advice and support was always there for those who needed it regardless of the time of day or night……..if he answered the phone. Determination was the driving force in Greyland’s life that kept him pressing forward even through heartache and pain. He was not going down without a fight! Big-hearted was one of the most admirable qualities Greyland possessed. He would give his last to help someone in need. He often sacrificed his time and self-care to assist others. Authentic is how Greyland’s closest friends describe him. He was straightforward, honest, and truthful, even if the truth was sometimes hard for people to received. He was also very true to himself, recognizing his own strengths and limitations. Nourishing was Greyland’s way of speaking a word that would bring life to any situation. He often referred to the word of God, Romans 8:28. Kindhearted, Greyland was one of the kindest people to know. He was a good listener and never hesitated to lend an ear to a friend or family member. He truly understood and exemplified the value of kindness. Spirituality and faith were the foundations of Greyland’s life. His desire to reflect God’s Love and Compassion was evident in the way he interacted with and cared for others. GREYLAND BANKS understood the value of life and lived it to the fullest. He knew that life was a journey and ran it with the grace of God. As he prepared to cross the finish line he looked forward to hearing his heavenly father say.. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith” II Timothy 4:7 “His Lord said unto him well done, thy good and faithful servant Thy hast been faithful over a few things, I will make Thee ruler over many things Enter thy into the joy of the Lord” Mathew 25:21 Greyland is preceded in death by his mother, Gladys Mathis, and son, Robert “Robbie” Dion Muhammad. He leaves to cherish his memories: his father, Carl Stewart, Sr.; one son Derrick (Tiffany) White; two daughters, Arneisha Banks, Destiny Banks; one daughter-in-law, Yreva Muhammad; eighteen grandchildren; James Poole, Jansen Poole, Jordan Poole, Jayden McFadden, Jaylen McFadden, Nioreh Muhammad, Solomon Muhammad, Toussanit Muhammad, Najm Muhammad, Nikah Muhammad, Shahada Muhammad, Ilyasa Muhammad, Mizan Muhammad, Derek White, Jr., Aariq White, Ehren White, Melanija White, Kaileah White; one great grand-daughter, Amanda Granderson; two brothers, Richard (Rosalyn) Mathis, Carl (Di-Ann) Stewart, Jr.; five sisters, Minister Kathy (Pastor Raymond) Horry, Jacqueline (Rev. James) Kizer, Karen Stewart, Sharon (Frank) Pugh, Tammie (Joe) Johnson; four aunts, Betty Williams, Francis Jones, Sallie V Stewart and Lavera (William) Brown; endearing cousin Rose (AL) Richardson thanks for your love and support, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins and special friends.