Boylston: Joan A. (Dunford) Banks, 87, passed away peacefully after a short illness on Sunday, August 11, 2024 in UMASS Memorial Medical Center surrounded by her loving family. She leaves her daughter Gail K. Banks; a daughter-in-law Elizabeth “Lizy” Banks; two beloved granddaughters Stephanie “Bud” and Roseli; two great grandchildren, and two nephews- Robert Dunford of California and Kevin Dunford of Holden. She was predeceased by her husband Paul Banks, her son Stephen P. Banks, her brother Thomas Dunford and her nephew Mark Dunford.
Joan was born in Worcester, daughter of the late Louis T. and Julia (Donahue) Dunford. She graduated from Worcester State College and worked as a teacher in the Auburn Public School System, Happy Day in Worcester, Millbury High School Preschool and Boylston Public Schools. She was a proactive resident of Boylston and served on several Boards over the years including the Boylston library and trust, the Boylston School Committee as a member and chairperson, and MHS Class Advisor. She enjoyed going to the ocean, antiques, collectables, traveling, and politics. She was a kind and generous person who will be sadly missed.
Calling hours will be held on Sunday, August 18, 2024 from 4-7 p.m. in Nordgren Memorial Chapel 300 Lincoln St. Worcester, MA 01605. A funeral Mass will be held on Monday, August 19, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Mary of the Hills Church in Boylston. Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the American Cancer Society. For directions or to leave an online condolence message, please click guestbook link.