Shirley JoAnn Banks

Shirley Joann Banks (Conway), age 87 died peacefully on June 5th, 2025. Shirley was born on July 3, 1937.

Shirley moved to Missouri early in life and graduated from UMKC with a Bachelor of Science in Education and began a teaching career. Shirley married Norman Kenneth Banks, who she called “Ted,” August 20th, 1964 and from this union a daughter, Christy was born. After only three years, Shirley was widowed and moved to California, where would continue an accomplished teaching for 30 years, recognized by co-workers and students alike for her care and abilities.

Shirley was active in community and school activities and her daughter's life. Shirley’s was active in the Masonic Eastern Star and Job’s Daughters, eventually attaining positions of Guardian, Deputy, and State Officer. She supported her daughter for more than 20-years in the Girl Scouts, serving as Troop Leaders and Service Unit Manager. Shirley was a member of the United Methodist Church for more than 60 years, drawing great joy and friendship from Sunday School and small groups over the years.

Shirley is preceded in death by parents Charles and Betty Conway, and of course her husband Ted.

She is survived by her daughter, Christy Hunt and her husband James of Liberty Missouri, grandchildren Kathryn Pennington with her husband Evan and their son Jack - all of Raytown Missouri; and grandson David Hunt of Liberty Missouri.

The family would also like to thank Shirley’s caregiver Ariana Gonzales, who has been devoted to Shirley’s care and comfort.

Shirley will be taken by her family to New Eminence Cemetery in Eminence, MO to be laid to rest next to her husband. A time of remembrance will be held on Saturday, July 19th 2025 at 1-3 PM at Park Lawn Funeral Home, 1640 N State Route 291, Liberty, MO 64068. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Shirley’s life.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the City of Liberty Animal Shelter or a charity of your choosing in her name.