James R. Banks Jr.

James Raymond Banks, Jr., age 66, of Independence, MO passed away on October10, 2026.

Jim was born on 12/18/59 in Galesburg, IL to James and Jeannie Banks. He graduated from Knoxville High School, then moved to the NW Arkansas area. He was in the construction industry, a street sweeper, and sold his artwork in Eureka Springs. He attended college at the University of Arkansas while working at a drug/alcohol treatment facility. In 1997 he married Cindy Kilgore Banks, and they moved to Blue Springs, MO. In May 1999 he earned his Bachelor of Science degree and was employed at Sprint in Overland Park, KS. In 2002 they moved to the Branson, MO area where they started their residential contracting business, Lakeland Builders, LLC. After a devastating motor vehicle accident, the business was dissolved due to injuries sustained. In 2018 they moved back to the Kansas City area.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Jeannie Banks. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Cindy, son Jeremiah (Shelby) Banks, grandchildren Maya and Beau, brother Jeff, and sister Lynn.

Jim was a very talented artist and loved painting and wood carving. He also enjoyed fishing and hunting. He was a thoughtful, caring person, and would stop for those broke down on the road, or to help the elderly load their groceries. He was always looking for ways to serve others. Jim never met a stranger.

Celebration of Life will be Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 12:30 at Blue Hills Baptist Church in Independence MO. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Sarcoma Foundation of America.

Obituary submitted by the family.

Arrangements by Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home in Independence, Missouri