Paul Henry Banko

Paul Henry Banko, 76, of Angier, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026 after a long illness.

Paul was born on January 10, 1950 in Fort Knox, Kentucky to the late Ignatius Banko, of Sugar Notch, Pennsylvania, and the late Laura Fields Goff, of Falcon, North Carolina.

He is survived by his wife, Kimberly Banko of Angier, NC; his children, Paul 'Aaron' Banko (Deborah) of St. Paul, NC, Emily Causey (Anthony) of Fuquay-Varina, NC, and Joseph Banko (Lindsay) of Wilmington, NC; and his cherished grandchildren, Courtney Banko, 'AJ' Banko, Gracelyn Causey, Caleb Causey, Hattie Banko, and Max Banko. His is also survived by great-granddaughters, Maddie and Ember.

Paul is further survived by his sisters, Robi Andison (Dennis) of Sequim, Washington, and Katherine Banko of Melbourne, Florida and his dear sister-in-law, Corrine Culbreath of Fayetteville, NC.

He was preceded in death by his brother, William 'Bill' Culbreath.

Paul grew up in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and was a gifted and versatile athlete, excelling in high school athletics earning All-State honors as a wide-receiver at Pine Forest High School, where his drive and competitive spirit were evident from an early age.

The bulk of his professional career was spent with Thomas Concrete during a period of significant growth and construction throughout the Triangle region. During that time, Paul was known for his reliability, energy, intensity, and commitment to his work, earning the respect of co-workers and customers alike.

Paul truly never met a stranger. Generous to his core, he had a rare ability to make everyone feel welcome, often doting on visitors and drawing people in with his warmth and humor. Always the prankster, he especially loved the children in his life, including dozens of nieces and nephews, all of whom cherished their time with their 'Uncle Paul'.

Paul was a big man both in presence and personality, leaving a lasting impression wherever he went. He approached everything he did with remarkable energy and lived life with a contagious zeal, especially when it came to the friends and family he loved. His life was defined by connection-by the way he showed up fully, loved openly, and brought people together. He will be remembered not only for what he did, but for how he made people feel.

In keeping with his wishes, there will be no funeral service. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank the nursing and therapy staff at Fuquay Varina Health and Rehab for their patience, compassion, and care for the last three years.

A service of Bryan-Lee Funeral Home - Angier.