March 20th, 2023
Nora T. Banning, 80, of Wilmington, DE, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family.
She was born on June 2, 1942, in Wilmington, a daughter of the late Bina O’Riordan and James Toner, Jr. She was predeceased by her sisters, Theresa T. Jones, and Margaret “Desie” Seramone; and brother Jerome “Babe” Toner, Sr.
Nora graduated from PS Dupont High School in 1960 and began a financial career at Sears on North Market Street. She met the love of her life, Harvey, a Navy Veteran, whom she married in February 1965. Soon after, she became a homemaker and caring mother to her four children.
She was an award-winning showcase manager for Home Interiors & Gifts. She later worked in sales, accounts receivable, and as a professional medical billing specialist. Nora retired in 2010.
She loved polar bears and hummingbirds. She enjoyed league bowling, rehabbing plants from home stores, and especially enjoyed road trips out and about with Harvey Sr.
She was a big fan of true crime television, 70’s soul and disco, smooth jazz, K-Pop, and loved to dance. She cherished having special moments and making precious memories with her nine grandchildren (Liam, Darby, Deidre, Jack, Rowan, Dylan, Evelyn, Alexander, and Alexandra.)
Nora is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Harvey Banning Sr.; her sons Harvey Jr. of Wilmington, and Christopher J. (Merideth) of Newark, DE; her daughters Vivian Hopkins (Ed) of Earleville, MD, and Nancy L. (Dave) of Wilmington; brother James E. Toner, III of Wilmington, sister Elizabeth “Honey” Ennis of Newark; and a large host of nieces and nephews. She will be missed immensely.
A Requiem Mass will be held on Saturday, March 25th at 11am at the Holy Rosary Catholic Church 3200 Philadelphia Pike, Claymont, DE.
Nancy and family, I am so sorry for your loss. Mrs. Banning was a special woman. I have known Mrs.Banning since first grade. She was a loving mother, wife and person. She taught Nancy many wonderful values that she now is passing down to her children. Mr.Banning you are an amazing father and husband. I remember you were so caring and loving to Mrs.Banning. You will all be in my thoughts and prayers!
In reply to Heather Polchito.
Dear Heather – I am now seeing this please forgive me. I appreciate your kind words. You are a great friend. Love Nancy
Vivian and family, please accept our deepest condolences on your loss. Cherish and hold dear your memories and I hope that helps you get through this difficult time.
Dawn and Billy
To the entire Banning family, I am so deeply sorry for your loss; prayers and thoughts are with you during this very hard time. Sending love. Joanne, David and family.
Dear Harvey & Family, Very saddened by your loss!
Wishing all of you Peace.
I have been blessed to have Harvey & Nora as WONDERFUL neighbors for over 20 years.
Ed Weldon
Harvey and family,
I am so very sorry to hear about Nora’s passing. Sending you lots of love and sympathy at this difficult time.
Vivian and family, so sad to hear. Such a funny Gal. Many fond memories of gatherings and dances at The Jones’s. May God wrap His arms extra tight around you. Suzie Lovechops
To the banning family Harvey Sr Vivian, Harvey Jr, Nancy, and Christopher. We are so sorry to hear of your mother’s passing we send our prayers and condolences to all of you . Michael and Dolores God bless
Harvey,I’m so sorry to hear about Nora. such a sweet friend and never a bad word about anyone. She will be greatly missed
Dear Harvey and family, we are saddened to hear the news of Nora’s passing. She and you were such an important part of our HCPM Family. She will be missed by many. May she Rest In Peace. Praying your joyful memories will sustain you during this time.
With love from your HCPM Family
Cindy