Willie Banks Cause of Death: How the Gospel Legend Passed Away

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 that inspired many listeners. He was also nominated for a Grammy Award in 1980 for his hit song “For The Wrong I’ve Done”. But how did Willie Banks die? What was the cause of his death? Here is what we know.

A Tragic Accident

According to Wikipedia, Willie Banks and his band, The Messengers, had a tragic accident on July 6, 1981, when their van careened down a 50-foot embankment near Atlanta, Georgia. One band member, Willie “Bill” Badger, was killed in the crash, while Banks was left to cling to life for several days before rescuers found him. Banks gave an account of the accident in a sermonette when he re-recorded his hit song “God’s Goodness” in 1982. He said that he saw a bright light and heard a voice telling him to go back and finish his work. He also said that he felt the presence of God and his angels during his ordeal.

A Long Recovery

The accident left Banks with severe injuries, including a broken neck, a crushed chest, and a punctured lung. He underwent several surgeries and spent months in the hospital and in rehabilitation. He also had to learn how to walk and talk again. Despite his condition, he never lost his faith or his passion for music. He signed with Malaco Records in the mid-1980s and continued to record and perform until his death. He released thirteen albums, five of them placing on the Billboard magazine Top Gospel Albums chart. His most memorable song, “God Is Still In Charge”, came in 1982 and became an anthem for many believers.

A Peaceful Departure

Willie Banks died on February 1, 1993, at the age of 63, in Jackson, Mississippi. According to Wikispro, the cause of his death was a non-communicable disease, although the exact nature of the disease was not specified. He was buried at the Autumn Woods Memorial Park in Jackson. He left behind a legacy of music and ministry that touched millions of lives. He was inducted into the USA National Track & Field Hall of Fame in 1999 and was honored by the Mississippi Legislature in 2000. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest gospel singers of all time.

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