[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 70 (Tuesday, April 21, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E352]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




    HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LADY FANNIE LEE ``MOTHA'' BANKS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LOIS FRANKEL

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 21, 2026

  Ms. LOIS FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
life and legacy of Lady Fannie Lee ``Motha'' Banks, who passed away 
earlier this month at the age of 90. A devoted wife and ministry 
partner, she served her community faithfully alongside her husband, 
Bishop Sylvester Banks, Sr., for over 70 years. Together, they 
established The Bible Church of God, Inc. in Boynton Beach, Florida. 
She was a spiritual mother to 24 churches across the United States, 
including many in Florida's Palm Beach County, and served as a National 
Mother for over eight years. Her impact was deeply felt throughout 
Boynton Beach and Delray Beach, where her life and service touched 
countless lives.
  The last of sixteen children, she was also the devoted mother of 
fourteen. Her remarkable legacy lives on through more than 160 
descendants--grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-
grandchildren--as well as a host of church members, extended family, 
and dear friends whose lives she touched.
  One of her most cherished gifts was her ability to make each person 
feel uniquely seen and valued--even in a crowded room. She was 
instrumental to Mr. Banks, Sr.'s many accomplishments, including the 
honor of receiving the Key to the City of Boynton Beach. An 
entrepreneur at heart, she owned a successful soul food restaurant in 
Boynton Beach and later operated a beloved bakery and pastry business, 
earning admiration and loyal support from customers across the country.
  The legacy of Lady Fannie Lee ``Motha'' Banks will forever live on in 
the hearts she touched, the lives she nurtured, and the faith she so 
powerfully demonstrated. Her love, wisdom, and unwavering devotion to 
family and her church will continue to inspire generations to come.
  Please join me in honoring the memory of Lady Banks for her 
extraordinary contributions to countless communities and her enduring 
impact. May her memory be a blessing.

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