Carol Ann Edwards

My Journey 

Carol Ann Edwards was a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose warmth and kindness touched everyone she met. She was born on January 11, 1951, in Toccoa, Georgia, to Mamie Sue Banks and LeRoy Flood. The eldest of five daughters, she shared a close bond with her sisters: Jane Banks, Janice Banks, Lillian Banks, and Linda Banks. 

Carol accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Friendship Baptist Church in Toccoa, Georgia. She graduated from Stephens County High School before making a life-changing move to Cleveland, Ohio, in 1975. 

With a passion for beauty and self-care, Carol became a licensed cosmetologist in 1983. She dedicated herself to making women feel beautiful, not just on the outside, but within. Later in life, she worked at New York Frozen Foods Warehouse, where she retired in 2003 after years of dedication and hard work. 

For over 30 years, Carol shared her life with her devoted partner, James Graves. Their relationship was built on love, laughter, and unwavering support for one another. James was not only her companion but also her best friend, standing by her side through life's joys and challenges. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, kindness, and a deep sense of family. 

Carol was a loving and dedicated mother to four children: Derrick Ladale Banks (Sara Banks), Yashica Banks, Tyisha Banks, and Kevin Banks. Derrick, her eldest son, was a devoted father to his two children, Cameron Banks and Chris Banks. His wife, Sara, also brought an additional blessing to the family with their daughter, Jada Chamroe-un Smith. Yashica, known for her strength and independence, shared a special bond with her mother and carried on her loving and caring spirit. 

She was the proud mother of Cashmere Banks. Tyisha, much like her mother, had a heart full of love and a giving nature. She was blessed with three children: Drequail Banks, Lillian Banks, and Romell Sumlin. Kevin, who preceded Carol in death, was a beloved son and father whose memory lives on through his children: Keyvon Banks, Kiara Banks, Keaton Banks, and Keaontae Banks. 

Carol was not only a devoted mother but also a doting grandmother who took immense pride in her grandchildren. She loved each of them dearly and cherished every moment spent with them. Her home was always filled with laughter, love, and the aroma of her delicious cooking, making it the heart of family gatherings. 

Carol had a vibrant personality and a heart of gold. She was known for her sense of humor, no-nonsense attitude, and deep devotion to her family. She was the matriarch of her family, caring for many loved ones and always putting others before herself. Whether she was cooking a meal that would leave you full and satisfied, playing a competitive game of Bid Whist, or simply lending a listening ear, Carol made everyone feel special. 

She formed lifelong friendships, especially with her best friends, Elsie Barber, Eloise McGlothin, and Fannie Smith who were more like sisters to her. She also shared a special bond for many years with Luevonia Edwards and a host of cousins nieces and nephews 

Carol was preceded in death by her parents, Mamie Sue Banks and LeRoy Flood, her sister Lillian Banks, and her son Kevin Banks. 

A public viewing will be held on February 14, 2025, from 3:00PM to 5:00PM at the House Of Peace Funeral Home, 4105 East 71st Street, Cleveland, OH.  The Celebration of Life Service will be on February 15, 2025, 10:00AM Wake and 10:30AM also at the House Of Peace Funeral Home, 4105 East 71st Street, Cleveland, OH. Eulogist, Sedric D. Veal, Sr. Interment will immediately follow at Evergreen Memorial Park, 5505 Northfield Rd, Bedford Heights, OH.

We welcome you to provide your thoughts and memories on Carol's tribute wall.