Diana Elaine Banks, 74, Fredonia, passed away peacefully at 1:45 pm on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission Hospital, Merriam, Kansas. She was born on January 16, 1951, in Carthage, Missouri, the daughter of the late Charles Harold Anderson, Sr. and Fannie Mae (Miller) Anderson Hodge. Diana’s life was a tapestry of love, service, and joy that touched everyone she knew.
Diana graduated from Carthage High School in 1968. She carried the spirit of her hometown with her throughout her life, infusing it into her work and relationships. Those who knew Diana will remember her for her loving nature, her creative spark, and her friendly demeanor that made her a cherished member of her community. She married Gerald E. Bowen on October 14, 1971, and to this union, a child, Nathan, was born; he preceded her in death on July 22, 1979. She then married Dick Banks on September 30, 1984, in Carthage, Missouri, and to this union, two children were born, Leah and Joshua. In her professional life, Diana dedicated herself to the role of a housekeeper, bringing order and beauty to the homes she cared for in Carthage, Missouri, and Fredonia, Kansas. Her work was more than a job; it was a manifestation of her care and attention to detail, which earned her the respect and gratitude of many families over the years.
Diana’s faith was an integral part of her life. She was a member of Calvary Wesleyan Church in Fredonia, Kansas, where she found strength and fellowship. Beyond her professional and spiritual life, Diana’s passions were manifold. She found joy in crafting and sewing, creating beautiful pieces that were both practical and artistic. Her love for Hallmark movies was well-known, as she cherished the heartwarming stories and the simple pleasures they brought. Music filled her home and heart, often serving as the soundtrack to her days. Working puzzles was another favorite pastime, a testament to her patience and problem-solving skills. Diana’s greatest joy was found in spending time with her family.
Survivors include her husband of 40 years, Dick Banks; her children, Nathan Bowen and Leah Anderson (Curtis); her brother, Howard “Dale” Anderson (Deonna); her sisters, Sharon Kay Duncan, Frances Kay Wood, Ona Kelly, and Dee Messersmith (Patrick); eight grandchildren; and many extended family and friends. She was also preceded in death by a son, Joshua Banks; three brothers, Charles Harold Anderson, Jr., Bobby Ray Anderson, and David Lee Anderson; and two sisters, Pamela Sue Anderson, and Patricia Ann Knack.
Memorial services will be held at 1 pm, Friday, April 11, 2025 at Knell Mortuary, Carthage. Inurnment will follow the service at Reeds, Cemetery, Reeds, Missouri. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.
