Julian C. Shanks, Sr.

Julian Calvert Shanks, Sr., was born on November 14, 1940, to the union of James Henry Shanks, and Sophia Louise Shanks. He was the 4th son born to this union, in Stanford,  Kentucky. Julian was a young child when his parents relocated the family to Cincinnati, Ohio. Upon the family's arrival to Cincinnati (Cumminsville), they united with the First Baptist Church of Cumminsville,  which at that time, was located on Baptist Hill. Julian sang in the choir with his melodious Tenor voice.

He attended the Garfield Elementary School, and Central High School. While attending Central High School, he majored in "Culinary Arts", and ran Cross Country. He graduated with the Class of 1958.

Julian was a former member of the Greater Cincinnati Choral Union,  where he met and married his first wife, Creola Puryear. Two sons were born to this union, Julian Calvert Shanks, Jr., and Darron Shanks. He was also a former member of the National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses, of which the late Dr. Thomas A. Dorsey was the Founder, and first President. 

Julian's occupational journey included, but not limited to, Bethesda Hospital as a cook, General Motors-Fisher Body Plant, and Bigg's Grocery Store. He was a very dependable, and hard worker.

His hobbies included, bowling at Madison Bowl, some years back, watching his favorite teams play, which were the Cincinnati Reds, and the Cincinnati Bengals. He also enjoyed watching all Tennis Matches. He loved his family, and all family gatherings. Especially, the bi-annual, Shanks/Dawson/Penman Family Reunions, of which he never missed. In fact, he had pre-registered for this year's reunion, which was held in July, but due to his health, was unable to attend.

Julian lived a full life, and was a walking miracle. He was preceded in death by his loving parents, his brothers - James Ray, Henry, Thomas, William, Lindsey, and sister - Rosemary Blanks, other loved ones, plus Algertha Shanks, and Vi Shanks. 

Those left to cherish his memories, are his Sons - Julian C. Shanks, Jr., (Cynthia), and Darron Shanks (Jennifer); Grandchildren - Julian C. Shanks, III, Ariel Z. Shanks, Dequan Wyatt, Camilla Shanks,  Darien Shanks,  Darron Shanks, Jr., and Ronnie Adams.

Siblings - Leonard, Lillie Graham (Hank), Harold, Susan, Charles (Theresa), Dorothea Shanks-Lott,  and Patricia Hallums, many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. 

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