William E. Shanks, Jr.

In memory of William “Bill” Ennis Shanks Jr., the William E. Shanks, Jr. Endowed Scholarship was established by his beloved wife, Jean S. Shanks.

William “Bill” Ennis Shanks Jr., born on September 5, 1950, in Jackson, Mississippi, passed away on September 11, 2011, in Birmingham, Alabama. Shanks attended Callaway High School in Jackson before going on to achieve academic excellence at Harvard College, graduating cum laude with an A.B. in History in 1972.

His passion for the law led him to Emory University, where he earned his J.D. cum laude in 1976. During his time at Emory, he distinguished himself as a member of the Order of the Coif and served as the Research Editor of the Emory Law Journal. Shanks continued to pursue his legal education, obtaining an LL.M. in Taxation with the highest honors from the University of Alabama in 1979.

Upon graduation, Shanks joined the prestigious law firm Balch & Bingham LLP, where he dedicated his entire 35-year career. Loved and respected by his partners and clients, Shanks contributed significantly to the firm’s Wealth Management & Employee Benefits practice and chaired the Pension Investment Committee.

Beyond his legal career, Shanks’ enthusiasm extended to various community activities. He served as the president of the Terrific New Theatre Board and was actively involved with the Red Mountain Theater Company. His support for the arts was evident through his regular patronage of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, Opera Birmingham, Virginia Samford Theatre, and Theatre Downtown.

In his personal life, Shanks was an ardent golfer, a passionate gardener, and a dedicated supporter of the UAB men’s basketball program. Above all, he was a loving and supportive husband, father, and son. Shanks was preceded in death by his father William E. Shanks Sr. He is survived by his cherished wife of 37 years, Jean, as well as his children Will and Amanda. His mother, two sisters, and niece also survive him.