Mrs. Madelyn Doris (Stelzer) Banister, age 78, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Thursday, January 12, 2023, at Heisinger Bluffs.
Madelyn was born on February 8, 1944, to Victor and Mildred (Pape) Stelzer in St. Louis, Mo. She was united in marriage to Dennis Banister on May 28, 1966. They shared 56 wonderful years of marriage.
A lifelong resident of Missouri, Madelyn graduated from Normandy Senior High School in St. Louis and later graduated with honors from Central Missouri State College in 1966.
Madelyn had a passion for growing young minds. Employed by Jefferson City Public Schools at Simonsen she taught English and journalism. She was also the Director of Madelyn’s House Preschool before retiring in December of 2000.
She was a member of Grace Episcopal Church. Madelyn was also musically gifted and, in her spare time, enjoyed playing the piano.
Survivors include her loving husband, Dennis; and son, Brian Banister and his wife, Debbie of Columbia, Mo.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Jenny Banister.
Madelyn was dedicated to giving the gift of knowledge. She made the decision to participate in the Gift of Body Program through the University of Missouri in Columbia. Her choice to donate her body will further research and education in various capacities.
A memorial service will be held to celebrate Madelyn’s life at a date to be determined. Details regarding the services will be announced on the funeral home webpage at a later date.
Memorial contributions can be made to the Jenny Banister Memorial Fund at Grace Episcopal Church or to the
Alzheimer’s Association.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.