Helen Morris Banks, 93, a resident of Ohesson Manor in Lewistown, passed away on Jan. 7, 2017.
She was preceded in death by: her father, Robert P. Banks Sr., M.D.; mother, Helen M. Banks; sister Bess Parker Banks; and brother, Robert P. Banks Jr., O.D.
Affectionally known as “HM” by her family, she is survived by a sister-in-law Virginia Q. Banks and six nieces and nephews.
She graduated from Juniata Joint High School, Fairfax Hall Junior College, and Lesley College, achieving a masters degree in education. During her career as a teacher, she traveled extensively with the armed forces, fulfilling assignments in Canada, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America. Her career also included missions closer to home. After the fall of Saigon, she undertook the role of Curriculum Coordinator at the Indo-Asian Refugee School at Fort Indiantown Gap. Later, once retired from government service, she filled in as a substitute teacher for the Juniata County School District.
Her retirement years became an opportunity to “give back” to the community dearest to her heart. She immersed herself in committees and accepted leadership roles in many local organizations; the Juniata Historical Society, the Democratic Women’s Club, planning committee for the Juniata County Library, Juniata Retired Teachers Association, Mifflintown Rotary Club (President & “Paul Harris Fellow”), Walker Grange No. 786, and the Pomona Grange.
She managed to include roles outside the community too, serving as president of the “Overseas Teachers Association” and regional president, historian and veteran affairs administrator for the “Daughters of the American Colonists.”
During the summer, a favorite pastime was relaxing by her pool and she was happiest when friends and family would stop by for a swim.
A lifelong dog enthusiast, a devoted canine companion was always close by her side.
A celebration of her life will take place at 11 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 13, 2017, at the Lost Creek Presbyterian Church, 517 Main St, McAlisterville. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Lost Creek Presbyterian Church.
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