Obituaries

In Loving Memory of Alison Lynn Banks

December 26, 1962 – November 27, 2024
Age 61

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of Alison Lynn Banks on November 27, 2024, at the age of 61.

Alison was born on December 26, 1962, in Toronto, to Loring and Ruby Hitchens. She was a loving wife to Earle Banks and a devoted mother to her sons, Benjamin and Alexander.

Alison is survived by:

Husband, Earle Banks, sons, Benjamin Banks (Jess Banks), Alexander Banks (Emma Briggs), her sisters, Sandra Winchester (Peter Winchester) and Laurie Hitchens; brother, Frank Hitchens (Nancy Hitchens); mother-in-law, Myrtle Banks; nieces, Jennifer Smith and Sarah Smith; nephews, Kris Hitchens (Brandi & Brody) and Matt Winchester (Kasheena Smith.), and many more friends and family both near and far.

Alison was preceded in death by her father, Loring Hitchens; her mother, Ruby Hitchens; grandparents, Frank Hitchens, Helen Hitchens and Frank Murphy and Alvita Murphy, uncle, John Murphy, her father-in-law, Edward Banks; her sister-in-law, Belinda Smith; and her sister, Judy Hitchens.

Alison had a fulfilling career as a library clerk at the Barrington Library, where she found great joy in helping others and connecting with the community. Her passion for reading, animals, and philanthropy was evident in all aspects of her life. She adored all manner of furry creature, especially horses, and always maintained a home full of pets. She often said, "A home isn’t a home without pets." A lifelong book lover, Alison would read two or three books each week and was a proud member of the Friends of the Library, working tirelessly to raise funds for the new Barrington Library, where she later became employed. Alison was also a passionate music lover, with James Taylor and Jann Arden among her favorite artists. In addition to her love for music, she enjoyed collecting blue willow china, as well as various crystals and minerals. She was deeply philanthropic, dedicating much of her time to raising funds for causes close to her heart, including the Heart and Stroke Foundation, breast cancer research, and other noble charitable efforts.

Alison was known for her warm and loving nature, her great sense of humor, and her love of sarcasm. She had a multitude of memorable sayings that those who knew her will cherish, including "Dry up!", "Suck a fart!", and "What in the hell is going on down here?". Alison never missed an opportunity to crack a joke or share a laugh.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring, where family and friends will gather to celebrate Alison’s life and the wonderful, special woman she was.

The family greatly appreciates the kindness and condolences from all who have reached out during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in the form of donations to organizations such as Breast Cancer Canada or your local SPCA.

"I'll love you forever,
I'll like you for always,
As long as I'm living,
my Mommy you'll be."
— Robert Munsch