Eric Lopaz Bankston born December 8, 1967 transitioned from this life on Thursday, March 3, 2022 after an extended illness.  He was born to Frank Owens and the late Clemia "Jean" Bankston.  Eric was a 1986 graduate of Timken Senior High School and he served in the United States Navy from 1989 to 1993.

Eric loved music, sports, and most of all his wife and his children.  Eric was a man of  few words, laid back but with an infectious laugh.  He was a hard worker and worked to support his family for many years until his health would no longer allow him to continue.  Eric was an excellent cook and loved to showcase his skills in the kitchen for family and friends.  Peach cobbler and sweet potato pie was his specialty.  Those special times in the kitchen will be missed most by his children.  Eric got so much joy out of watching his children play sports, especially his boys playing football.  Eric fought a good fight for many years battling his health but he was faithful to his family and his household making sure to be available when he could.

Eric is preceded in death by his mother.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 18 years and life partner for 27, Mittese Bankston; father, Frank Owens; children, Jacob Williams, Erica, Erin, EJ, Logan, and Aidyn Bankston; grandchildren, Nova and Harlie Bankston; siblings, Stephanie (Marion Jr.)  Randolph of Sumpter, South Carolina, Vickey Bankston of Tampa, Florida, Frank (Ranada) Owens jr., Alex (Shaughn) Owens, Maurice Bankston, and Michelle Owens-Riggins all of Canton, Ohio; his only living aunt, Martha (Curtis) Freeman of Texas, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and in-laws that will cherish his memory forever.