Rhonda Joy Banford

Rhonda Joy Banford, survived by her loving husband, David Banford, her two daughters, Alyssa Banford (Bradley Biesinger) and Caitlin Banford (Cam Maloni) and her brand new grandbaby, Lola Joy Maloni, passed the morning of March 31st.

Born and raised in St. Louis, Rhonda was the youngest of two daughters to Mildred and Richard Poletsky (z"l). Although her sister, Sheila Glazer (z"l), was eight years older, Rhonda and Sheila enjoyed a close relationship filled with laughter and memories.

Rhonda brought joy to so many throughout her life. Her quick wit, prodigious vocabulary, creativity, warmth, strength, and compassion was evident to all who knew her. She grew up with an incredible love for The Beatles, animals - especially dogs, and tennis. In her career as a Speech and Language Pathologist, she gave the precious gift of language to so many children and adults.

Never one to sit on her laurels, Rhonda volunteered wherever her passion led her. She led the immense project of the Jewish Committee for New American’s summer camp at the International Institute, worked with a dog adoption organization, helped resettle two families into their new St. Louis homes, safely walked women needing care into Planned Parenthood, and turned out with her homemade posters to every rally she could find.

Diagnosed with metastatic Breast Cancer, Rhonda’s unending internal strength and the steadfast support of her husband gave her a few more years to proudly watch her daughter’s careers and relationships blossom.

Her memory is a blessing and a constant source of light.

Funeral service Wednesday, April 3rd, 10:00 AM at the New Mt. Sinai Mausoleum, 8430 Gravois. See shiva details below.