Obituary of Louise Z. Banks

Louise Zarelli-Banks, age 94, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2019. She was the devoted daughter of the late Frank and Carmela Zarelli. She was the beloved wife of the late Donald John Banks, Sr. She was the loving mother of John Banks and his wife Patricia, D.J. Banks Jr. and his wife Doreen and Thomas Banks and his wife Karen. She was the cherished grandmother of Kristopher, Keith, Samantha, Alex and Thomas. She was the dear great grandmother of Katie,Avery, Isabelle and Lorenzo. She was the beloved sister of Phyllis Grae-Nielsen. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. Louise was born and raised on Staten Island in West Brighton. She attended and graduated Curtis High School in 1946. She went on to study Mathematics at Wagner College and graduated in 1950. Louise continued to further her schooling by getting her Master's Degree in education. She began working as an elementary school teacher at P.S. 46 and later became an Assistant Principal at P.S. 14. By the time of her retirement in 1985, she worked over 30 years for the NYC Department of Education. Besides having a successful career, Louise was a wonderful wife and mother to her three sons. She will be remembered for her lively and vivacious spirit and for the way she watched over her family. In her spare time, Louise enjoyed solving crossword puzzles, traveling all around the world and cooking some of the best meals you ever had. Over the years, Louise touched many people and will be dearly missed by all who had the pleasure to know her. Funeral from the Matthew Funeral Home, Inc., 2508 Victory Boulevard, on Monday, 8/5/19, departing at 9:15 AM. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Patrick's R.C.Church at 10 AM. Interment to follow in Moravian Cemetery. Family and friends may visit on Sunday, 8/4/19, from 2:00 to 4:00 and 7:00 to 9:00 PM.