Jennifer "Jenny" Grace Banner

Jennifer “Jenny” Grace Banner, 34, of Florence, passed away after a long courageous battle with cancer on Monday January 19th, 2026, with her loving parents at her side. She was born in Northampton on January 28, 1991, to James and Lisa (Matusko) Banner. She had attended schools in Northampton and after graduating from the Carpentry program at Smith Vocational and Agricultural in 2009, she went on to earn a degree in Hospitality from HCC and pursued her true passion for the culinary world. Jenny cherished her time working at the former Brewmaster's Tavern in Williamsburg, where she formed lasting friendships with her co-workers and enjoyed connecting with the many customers she greeted each day. Her genuine warmth and kindness left a memorable impression on those she met in her role. More recently, Jenny continued to pursue her love of the culinary arts by working in Dining Services at Mt. Holyoke College. There, she embraced opportunities to meet new people and found a special friendship among her colleagues on the J-Team. Outside of work, Jenny found happiness tending to her summer garden, attending concerts, and spending quality time with her friends. She treasured dining out with her mom and dad, relished eventful trips to Hampton Beach, and enjoyed visits to casinos with her mom. Each of these moments brought her joy and created memories that she held close to her heart. Jenny is survived by her loving and devoted parents, James and Lisa Banner, of Florence, her aunts and uncles, John Banner, Jr., Nancy & Hector Williams, Howard Banner, Chris & Nancy Banner, Pamela Maynard, Michelle & Mark Lambert, Susan Syrek & Brian Allen, she is also survived by all the cousins whom she loved and would always greet with a smile and a hug. She was predeceased by her brother Matt, whom she missed dearly, and her grandparents, John and Joyce Banner and Julius and Judy Matusko. Calling hours will be Friday January 30, 2026, from 10 AM – 12 PM, followed by a Prayer Service at 12 PM at DROZDAL FUNERAL HOME, 120 DAMON RD., NORTHAMPTON. Immediately following the prayer service burial will be in Spring Grove Cemetery, Florence. In lieu of flowers, Donations in her memory can be made to the Matthew Banner Scholarship C/O Smith Vocational & Agricultural School, 80 Locust Street, Northampton, MA 0l060. For additional information or to share a personal condolence with the family, please visit Drozdalfuneralhome.com.

Jennifer "Jenny" Grace Banner

January 28, 1991 - January 19, 2026