Clara Lee Bankston, age 90, peacefully transitioned from this life into eternity on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 12:07 p.m. at her residence, surrounded by her loving and devoted family.

Clara was born on February 7, 1936, in Florence, Alabama, to the late Frank and Madgie Lee (Turner) McDaniel. She was united in holy matrimony to the love of her life, Corinth L. Bankston, on March 17, 1951. He preceded her in death on June 3, 2008.

Clara dedicated many years of faithful service as a correctional officer at Allen Correctional Institution, from which she retired in 2006. She was a woman of strong faith and a devoted member of 4th Street Missionary Baptist Church, where she joyfully gave praise and instilled spiritual values that continue to guide generations of her family.

In addition to her church involvement, Clara was an active member of the Red Hat Club and her work union, OCSEA, where she built lasting friendships and contributed to her community.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her beloved daughter, Caus-Andre Corene (Michael) Miller of Toledo, Ohio; one half-sister in Florence, Alabama; two sisters of the heart, Claudine Bankston and Corene Velma Pernell of Lima, Ohio; her granddaughter and devoted caretaker, Crystal Robertson “the boss”; her nurse, Christy Metzger; 15 grandchildren; 44 great-grandchildren; 35 great-great-grandchildren; along with a host of extended family and dear friends.

In addition to her parents and husband, Clara was preceded in death by her four children: Corinth Bankston Jr., Dimitri Bankston, Madge Copeland, and Cau-Sandre O. Bankston; two great grandchildren and one brother.

Clara’s legacy of love, strength, and faith will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Funeral Services for Mrs. Clara Lee Bankston will be held on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. at 4th Street Missionary Baptist Church. A viewing will be held two hours prior to the service.

Interment: Woodlawn Cemetery

Services entrusted to: JONES-CLARK FUNERAL HOME, INC.

To order flowers and to offer condolences to the Bankston Family, visit www.jonesclarkfuneralhome.com