Evelyn Stillinger Banks, 81, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully following a courageous and lengthy battle with breast cancer. She leaves behind a lifetime of love, cherished memories, and a family who will forever hold her close in their hearts.

Evelyn was the devoted widow of David R. Banks, Sr. and the oldest daughter of the late Mack C. and Henrietta D. Stillinger. She was a woman who treasured family above all else and found her greatest joy in the simple moments shared with the people she loved.

She is survived by her daughter, Dana R. Banks, and granddaughter, Cierra Banks. She is also survived by her siblings, Diann Infinger (Lem), Mack C. Stillinger, Jr. (Carroll), Deborah Byrd, and sister-in-law Beverly Stillinger; her special niece, Rietta Maier (Aaron) and their daughter, Leigha Maier; and her special cousin, Joyce Hughes. Evelyn's family was her greatest treasure, and the love she shared with each of them will continue through the generations.

She was preceded in death by her beloved son, David R. Banks, Jr., and her brother, David Michael Stillinger.

A proud graduate of Orangeburg High School, Class of 1963, Evelyn dedicated many years of her professional life to caring for others through her work at SC Orthopaedic Clinic, from which she retired in 2005. She was an active member of the Benevolent Protective Order of Elk (BPOE) #0897.

Evelyn enjoyed reading and listening to music, but her favorite pastime was being surrounded by family. Some of her happiest memories were made during countless cookouts and family gatherings at the pond house. Those gatherings were more than meals—they were occasions filled with laughter, stories, fellowship, and the kind of memories that become family treasures. The pond house became a special place where generations of family came together, and Evelyn cherished every moment spent there. She had a unique way of making people feel welcome and reminding everyone that time together was something to be treasured.

A special expression of gratitude and love is extended to the physicians, caregivers, and staff of the MUSC Hollings Mabry Cancer Center, especially the chemotherapy nurses whom Evelyn lovingly called her “love sisters.” Their compassion, kindness, and unwavering care brought comfort to Evelyn and her family throughout her journey, and their place in her heart will never be forgotten.

Evelyn's legacy is not measured simply by the years she lived, but by the love she gave, the family she nurtured, and the countless memories she created. She taught those around her the importance of family, the joy of gathering together, and the beauty found in life's simplest moments. She will be deeply missed, but her laughter, her love for family, and the warmth of her presence will live on in those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

Graveside funeral services celebrating Evelyn's life will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery, 2720 Broughton Street, Orangeburg, South Carolina. Pastor Larry Wannamaker will be officiating. Graveside visitation will be held one hour prior to the service.

Family and friends are also welcome to gather at “The Family Pond House,” 191 Little Debbie Lane, Orangeburg, South Carolina, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 16, 2026, and Monday, August 17, 2026, to share memories, stories, and fellowship in one of the places Evelyn loved most.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospital for Children, 950 West Faris Road, Greenville, SC 29605, or to MUSC Hollings Mabry Cancer Center, 1161 Cook Road, Orangeburg, SC 29118.