The National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers said that charter member and devoted association supporter Charlie Bancroft passed on May 6, 2013, at the age of 80

The NAELB said the organization owes a debt of gratitude to Bancroft and a small group of other brokers who came together in Atlanta in 1990 to form a new association to serve the broker community. From that gathering, the National Association of Equipment Leasing Brokers was born.

Bancroft served on the NAELB board of directors from 1996 until 1999 and was a cheerleader for the association throughout his leasing career, which began in 1977 with the founding of Bancroft Leasing in Memphis, TN. He was best known for his agricultural leasing but also played a role in getting The Peabody Hotel ready for its grand reopening in 1981.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Ann Perry Bancroft, and his two daughters, Julie Bancroft and Sheri Bancroft. NAELB Master Member, Bancroft Leasing, will continue to operate in the same location, under the direction of his daughter Julie.

The NAELB noted that Bancroft’s e-mail signature always closed with “Cheers from Charlie,” a sentiment sums up the pleasant demeanor he approached his life and work with. The NAELB added: “Cheers to you Charlie. Thank you for the contributions you made during a life well lived.”