Brenda S. Banker

Brenda, of Marco Island, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 12, 2024. She was 74 years old.

Brenda was born on February 9, 1950, in Milford, DE to John Jarrell and Lillian Harris. She was a proud graduate of Caesar Rodney High School class of 1968. Following high school, she attended Goldey Beacom Community College and after graduation worked for several years as an administrative assistant. While working at ICI she met Ray Banker, and it was love at first sight – at least for Ray. They were married in June 1982 and thus began 42 years of a very happy, love filled marriage.

Brenda was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus in 1984 which limited her ability to work. She decided to obtain her bachelor’s degree. She was accepted by the University of Delaware and earned a BA in Psychology. She went on to earn an MA and PhD in Psychology at the University of Delaware. She preferred research over teaching but excelled at both. Her research focused on blended families, and she authored and coauthored several published papers. She taught classes at the University of Delaware in psychology and women’s studies.

Brenda enjoyed playing piano and had a beautiful singing voice. She was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church and was a Lector at Mass for many years. She was a member of the Marco Island Community Choir.

Brenda is survived by her loving husband Raymond Banker, a son, John Olsen and daughter Kathie Banker (Mark) Klosiewicz, by stepchildren Colby (Nancy) Banker, Betsy Banker Lee and Raymond (Suzy) Banker. She was a devoted and loving grandmother to Delaney Lee, Maggie Banker, Christopher Lee, Ellen Banker, Trent Dashiell, Colleen Banker and Tucker Dashiell.
Brenda is also survived by her aunt, Eileen (Peter) Laurence who provided many happy childhood memories and was a valued friend and confidant, and siblings Gregg (Alex) Jarrell, Sherry Jarrell and John Jarrell.

Upon retirement in 2001, Brenda and Ray became snowbirds, splitting their time between Marco Island, FL and Wilmington, DE. In 2020, they moved permanently to Marco Island. Brenda was an avid golfer at The Island Country Club and particularly enjoyed extended visits by grandchildren.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, July 12, 2024 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 4701 Weldin Road, Wilmington, DE 19803. A visitation will be held at the church prior to mass from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. Interment will be private.

Brenda was a private and humble woman, and she would be amazed at the outpouring of love and respect that has been expressed since her passing. To honor Brenda and in lieu of flowers donate to the Lupus Association of America,2121 K Street NW, Suite 200, Washington, DC 20037. Their web site is www.lupus.org.