Florine Coney Banks

Born in Pike County, Mississippi, Florine Coney Banks was the cherished daughter of the late William T. Coney and Vera Gardner Coney. As the fifth of seven children, Florine’s life was steeped in warmth, family, and Southern charm. She graduated from Rowan High School in 1965 and later relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where her story with Horace Banks began. They married and shared a loving union that welcomed three sons: Michael, Daryon, and Brian (“Tim Tim”).

Florine radiated joy, generosity, and a spirit of hospitality. She never met a stranger and had a way of making everyone feel like family. Her cooking became legendary—nourishing more than just the body—with laughter, stories, and kindness served alongside every meal.

She loved shopping, listening to music, gardening, and playing cards with loved ones. Always classy and jazzy, Florine brought light and elegance to every room she entered. Whether reminiscing about childhood or swapping stories with her siblings, she was a treasured presence whose warmth lingered long after the conversation ended.

Florine’s walk with Christ began early in life and remained steadfast. In Chicago, she became a dedicated member of Great Hope Missionary Baptist Church, faithfully serving and leading auxiliaries for over 30 years. When she returned to Hattiesburg, MS, she continued her spiritual journey at Antioch Baptist Church, where her devotion remained unwavering.

On Sunday, July 27, 2025, Florine was called home to be with her Heavenly Father.

She was preceded in death by her parents, William T. Coney and Vera Gardner Coney;one beloved son, Michael T. Banks; and her siblings, Freddie Coney, Jessie Vernell Graham, Myrtle Gillespie, and James Coney.

Ms. Florine Coney Banks leaves behind a rich and enduring legacy of love, strength, and kindness. She is survived by her devoted husband of 56 years, Mr. Horace Banks; two sons, Daryon Banks and Brian Banks of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; two sisters, Ferry Dean Coney and Bonnie Scott, also of Hattiesburg; her cherished bonus daughter, Carolyn (Sherman) Banks-Bowman of Chicago, Illinois; and beloved daughter-in-law, Nicole Stark Banks of Dallas, Texas. Her memory lives on in the hearts of her grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and countless friends, all of whom were touched by her warmth and wisdom.