Elizabeth Banick, nee McDonnell, 94, died peacefully on May 16, 2026.

Born in Scranton, PA to the late James and Elizabeth McDonnell (nee Ratchford), she was a graduate of St. Ann's Monastery High School in Scranton.

She met the love of her life, Dr. William Banick, after being introduced by friends at a high school football game. The two were married in 1956 and settled in Somerville where they raised their family.

Elizabeth was a longtime active parishioner at The Church of The Immaculate Conception in Somerville, where she was a member of their Rosary Altar Society. She and her husband enjoyed devoting time to the parish in various roles and making connections that lasted a lifetime.

Mrs. Banick was a volunteer at the former Somerset Medical Center and was a professional caregiver. She devoted herself as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Elizabeth did not just focus on her family, but the children that came into her life were all her children, and she loved them as such. She was an incredible listener, giving a space of comfort and trust to those she cherished.

Elizabeth enjoyed reading, flowers (especially Gerber Daisys), going out to dinner, and spending quality time with her family and dear friends. She was a devoted Notre Dame football and Boston RedSox fan. She was a mother to all and created memories in the experiences she shared with her loved ones that will be cherished for generations.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William Banick in 2009, as well as by her dear siblings, James McDonnell, Robert McDonnell, and Maureen Major; sister-in-law Marjorie Boland and brothers-in-law Francis Major, Joseph Banick, Bernard Banick, and Robert Banick; and many dear cousins and friends who must have hosted quite a party to welcome her Home.

Surviving are her loving children, William Banick and wife Karen; Lisa Banick and husband Al Avignone; and Jacqueline and husband Tom; her cherished grandchildren, Matthew Banick and wife Liz; Michael Banick; and Andrew Banick and wife Lauren; her adored great-grandchildren Aria, Nate, Josie, and Jonah; sisters-in law Sr. Dolores Banick, IHM and Carol Mummert; brother-in-law Msgr. Thomas Banick; her dear friends Mary and Bill Buzby and their children who are her bonus children, Erin and Kelly Buzby; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at Sunrise Assisted Living in Bridgewater for all they had done to give Elizabeth care and comfort in her final years. 

Visitation will be held from 4:00 to 8:00PM on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at Cusick Funeral Home, 80 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00AM on Friday, May 22, 2026 at The Church of The Immaculate Conception, 35 Mountain Avenue, Somerville.

Entombment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery Mausoleum, Piscataway.

Memorial contributions may be made in her memory to Dance for The Cure Click Here and The Covenant House Click Here