Jerrold P. Bankert

Jerrold Paul Bankert (1935-2025) passed away on September 13, 2025, at home following a brief illness that closed a long, wonderful life centered around his family and his loving wife of 56 years, Blanche (Nelson) Bankert.

Jerry was born on July, 5, 1935 in Philadelphia to the late John Speelman Bankert and Eleanor (Ankrum) Bankert, a ninth-generation descendant of colonial Pennsylvania settlers. He was a 1953 graduate of Central High School in Philadelphia, where he ran track for the Mirrors before going on to captain the track team at West Chester State Teachers College, earning a degree in Secondary English in 1957. His love of running extended throughout his life as he taught English and coached cross country and track at Kennett High School. Residents of Willistown Township could set their watches by his 5:00 a.m. runs along its back roads for decades.

Jerry was a member of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A) and sang in choirs and oratorio societies throughout his life within the congregations of Bethany Temple (Philadelphia), Paoli Presbyterian, and Wayne Presbyterian churches.

He was a veteran of the United States Army and served from 1958-1960. While stationed at Fort Sam Houston in Texas, Jerry set his best mile time of 4:19 competing for the Fifth Army.

His greatest love in life was his family and his bride, Blanche. Jerry follows his late brother John Speelman Bankert, Jr. (1933-2009), and is survived by his sister Jacqueline (Conway), brother George Bankert and children Jerrold Paul Bankert, Jr., Beth Ann Hollick (Jeff), and James Bankert (Saskia). He was a loving grandfather to Alexander, Erik, Alexis, Newell, Saxon, and Kipling. He was a devoted friend and singing partner with his daughter-in-law Saskia.

Relatives and friends are invited to Jerry’s visitation on Friday, September 19, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Wayne Presbyterian Church, 125 E Lancaster Ave, Wayne, PA followed by his funeral service at 11:00 AM. A reception will be held through the church connector following the funeral service. Interment private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Jerry’s name to the music ministry at Wayne Presbyterian Church - shelbygiving.com/app/giving/wayne - would be greatly appreciated.