July 17, 1947 – August 29, 2026

Thomas Frances Banks, known to family and friends as Tom, passed away on August 29, 2026, in Somersworth, NH. Born in the Bronx, New York, to Thomas and Margaret Banks, Tom was a proud Irish man who lived a full life marked by adventure, service, hard work, friendship, family, and plenty of laughter.

Tom grew up in New York, where he spent his childhood playing stickball with the neighborhood kids and running through the streets of NYC. His adventurous spirit eventually led him to join the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly served his country in Vietnam.

After returning home, Tom explored many different paths as a young man. Just a few of those adventures included prison guard at the Alcatraz of the East, train conductor, stagehand and a police officer in Kittery, Maine. In 1980 Tom joined Stanley Elevator Company where he gained numerous lifelong friendships before retiring after 33 years.

Tom was a social man who enjoyed being out and about and staying connected to his community. He loved his visits to The Ukrainian Club Manchester, local library, City Hall, and Fast Jacks barber shop—places where he could catch up, talk with people, and, as Tom would have it, probably share a few stories along the way.

But more than anything, Tom was a loving and kind man who treasured his family. His wife and children fondly remember trips to ski mountains, Red Jacket Inn and Novia Scotia. He was especially devoted to his grandchildren, whom he loved dearly and happily spoiled. He also spent many wonderful years embracing and enjoying the large family of his beloved wife, Virginia, gaining not only a wife but many additional brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews whom he came to love as his own.

Tom is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Virginia Banks; his son Thomas Banks and his partner, Elizabeth, of Hampton, NH; his son Brendon Banks of Dover, NH; and his daughter Bridget Smith and her husband, Rob, of Dover, NH. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Dylan Banks, Adrienne Smith, and Robert Smith, as well as his extended family and many friends.

Tom was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Thomas and Margaret Banks, and his older brother, Peter Finlay.

Tom was always up for a good time, a good story, and a good laugh. He would not want those who loved him to spend their days being sad. In keeping with Tom's wishes, a Celebration of Life will be held at The Elks, 282 Durham Rd., Dover, NH 03820, on Friday, October 9, from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. Family and friends will gather to remember Tom, share stories, laugh at the memories, raise a glass in his honor, and celebrate the man he was and a life well lived. Until we meet again. Sláinte.

Assisting the family with arrangements is the Cremation Society of NH, Hampton.

To view Tom's Online Tribute, send condolences to the family, or for more information, visit www.csnh.com.