Donald "Donnie” D. Bankston

Donald "Donnie” D. Bankston, 74, of Reidsville, passed away Thursday, June 4, 2026. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2026, at Wilkerson Funeral Home, with Phil Surrett officiating.

Donnie was born in Norfolk County, Virginia, to the late Alvin Bankston and Evelyn Mae Ratliff Bankston. He proudly served his country in the United States Navy for four years aboard a submarine tender. Following his military service, he dedicated his career to pharmaceutical research as an organometallic chemist, where his work played a part in developing medicines that helped make a difference in the lives of others. Throughout his career, he was awarded multiple patents, including work involving potent Raf kinase inhibitors and fluorine-substituted compounds for treatment applications. He also authored several scientific papers, including research related to breast cancer, and was highly respected for his knowledge and dedication to his work. Outside of his career, Donnie enjoyed gardening and was an avid tomato grower who especially enjoyed sharing what he grew with others. In addition to his parents, Donnie was preceded in death by his twin brother, Ronald Bankston. He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Vanessa Loftis Bankston; daughter, Tracy Bankston Sandoval and husband, Joe Sandoval.

To his family, Don was far more than his accomplishments — he was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a steady presence who will be deeply missed every day.