Diane Banks

Diane Eileen Banks (nee) Patterson was born on September 17, 1958 to Traxler Patterson and Estelle Tinsley, in Riverhead, Long Island, New York. She was predeceased by her father, and her husband Lloyd W. Banks.

Relocating to Ridgewood, NJ as a young child, Diane was educated primarily in the Ridgewood Public School System. Upon moving to Paterson, NJ, she graduated from Eastside High School. After high school she moved back to Ridgewood, where she reconnected with childhood friend Larry Harper. Their union blessed them with the birth of their children, Mia and Vaughn. Diane was a devoted mother and enjoyed spending time with her family. She was also a loving and devoted grandmother, making sure to spoil each grandchild. The bond she shared with her grandchildren was very special and could not be broken.

Diane had a generous, loving spirit. She was a nurturer and caretaker by nature, lending support and helping others in need. That same spirit led her to a career in healthcare, as a Unit Secretary for the Psychiatric Ward at Valley Hospital Ridgewood, NJ; and to Neurology Group of Bergen County, Ridgewood, NJ where she served as Office Manager until her retirement. In continuing her love of service to others, Diane continued to work after retirement, as a bus aide for children with special needs.

Diane loved the Lord and her church family. She was a lifelong member of Metropolitan AME Zion Church of Ridgewood, NJ. Her love of the Lord began at an early age, under the guidance of her grandmother, Etta Thomas. As a child she was an active participant of Sunday School and the Christian Endeavor. She enjoyed singing and praising the Lord, becoming a member of the AME Young Adult Choir, and later joining the NJ Conference Choir.

“Lady Di”, and “Silver Fox” as she was affectionately known as was a lively and fun-loving person. She had many hobbies which included crocheting, traveling, and attending social events. As an active member of the Happy Travelers, she enjoyed cruises and traveling to the Caribbean. She was the life of the party, and lived her life to the fullest. She lived by her mantra “I’m not counting my days...I’m making my days count.”

Diane transitioned into the arms of the Lord on April 13, 2020. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving mother Estelle Tinsley; beloved children, daughter Mia Reardon (Steven), son Vaughn Harper, and daughter in love Darlene Miller; grandchildren Amari Reardon, Hakeem Reardon, and Rashad McKinley; her brother Gordon Patterson, Sr (Bea); sister Reverend Janel York; and significant other Henry (Hank) Rhodes. Her memory will also be cherished by her beloved Uncle Richard (Barbara) Thomas, and Aunt Arlene Lewis; her Goddaughters Arnise Lewis, Latasha Bobbitt, and Sasha Thompson; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.