David Franklin Banfield

It is with a profound sense of loss that we remember and reflect on the life of David Franklin Banfield, age 87 of Decatur. A man of humor, compassion, loyalty with spirit, he passed from this life, in his home, surrounded by his family on Saturday, May 11, 2024.

Born in April of 1937, in Decatur, Illinois, David lived here all his life. David's life was steeped in laughter, kindness, and the pursuit of knowledge. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, David dedicated his life to his family and church, always leading with his heart and his unwavering faith.

The son of James and Lois Banfield, David would often recall his early years working on farms with Uncle Glen bailing hay with his cousin, Jim. He and future brother-in-law, Dwight enjoyed the rough play of “King of the Mountain". David had vivid memories of stopping on the way home from school at Grandma’s for sweets. He attended the local elementary schools and then graduated from Decatur High. David served in the Army after high school until 1964, (Marksman Pistol Expert Rifle) with the rank Sgt E5. Returning to Decatur, David gained his apprenticeship in welding at AE Staley Company.

David was a man of many talents and hobbies, from fine carpentry (he built their home) to square dancing with the Promonaders and Mt. Zion Rainbow Squares. David had a great interest in nature, evident in his volunteer work at Rock Springs Nature Center and in his intrigue for star gazing. His skillfulness was evident in his career as a boilermaker (Member of AIW 837), and he retired from AE Staley in 1993. His spirited nature was delightfully engaging while storytelling. David’s family has a particular fondness for his reading of the Birth of Jesus on Christmas Eve, first to his daughters, then his grandchildren and also his great grandson, just this past Christmas. While on family camping trips, he would encourage his girls to wind down at the end of the day by telling them his own unique fractured fairy tales. David was a Charter member of the Mt. Zion Swingsations Booster Club and his commitment to community carried through to Precinct Committee Man Long Creek 3. He also served as Little Galilee Camp Representative and was a member of Mt. Zion Lion's Club. One way that David chose to share his faith was by investing into children's Sunday School classes. David and Barbara were longstanding members of Mt. Zion Christian Church. He loved to expand on his teachings by taking the kids on fun camping trips. Of all his qualities, David's humor was one of his more endearing traits, as evidenced by his boldy innocent remark, "My hands are clean," Another frequent line often heard by his daughters " It's time for the Banfield Family Clean Up!" Those who knew him best and loved him most will miss his funny facial expressions when he was being ornery, his lovable hugs, and the knowing that he would do anything for his girls.

David is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara Banfield, with whom he shared a beautiful journey of 64 years; his precious daughters Sue McKee and her husband Kevin and Shari Smith and her husband George; his adored grandchildren Devlin McKee, Meghan McKee, Crystal Smith, and Savannah Smith; and his great-grandson Alexander Smith, who brought immense joy in his later years, and sister, Nancy Hudson. Many nieces and nephews and several special friends. Extended "family" members, Rich, Eva and family, Terri, Pat and family, David, Ginny and family, Connie Disney, Dagoberto Burgos Flores (exchange student), Mike and Karen, George, Angie and family, Mary Waldmier, Jennie Thompson, Janet Spruell.

He was preceded in death by his parents James and Lois, his daughter Sandi Bandfield Fulk, his brothers-in-law Dwight, James, Sam, Bob, Joe, and his sister-in-law Mary Ellen.

A Visitation with family and friends will be Thursday, May 16, 2024, from 10:00 am- 12 Noon, Mt. Zion Christian Church. A funeral service Celebrating David's life will follow, beginning at noon, also at the church. Memorials can be made to Mt. Zion Christian Church or to Rock Springs Nature Center. Tanzyus Logan Funeral Service and Care is in charge of arrangements. Please sign the family guestbook at www.tanzyusloganmemorialpages.com.

David’s family encourages all who knew and loved him, to share their memories and photos on his memorial page. David's life was a beautiful journey filled with cherished moments, and we invite you to celebrate his life by sharing your own personal experiences and encounters with David Banfield.

“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord, forever.” Psalm 23:6