IN MEMORIAM: Peggy Jean Banta, 63;
Dies After 8-Year Fight With Cancer
UNADILLA – Peggy Jean Banta, beloved sister and niece, passed away on Sept. 11, 2019, at home on her 63rd birthday after an eight-year battle with cancer.
Peggy was born on Sept. 11, 1956, at The Hospital, Sidney, to Jean Anderson Banta and George D. Banta III. Peggy grew up on the family farm in Unadilla Center, the third of four children.
She attended Unadilla and Unatego schools, graduating in 1974. After graduation, Peggy remained at home to help her mother with the bookkeeping for the farm.
With the decline of her mother’s health, Peggy became the primary bookkeeper as well as caregiver for her mother, and later, her father.
In 2011, Peggy was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Through eight years of surgeries, chemotherapies and other medical procedures, Peggy continued to care for her dad and uncle at home. Banta Brothers dairy farm ceased operation at the end of 2012, and Peggy cared for her dad until he passed in 2015.
She considered family most important in her life, and was both loving and generous.
Peggy enjoyed going to antique shops with her mother and sister, collecting old postcards, vintage Halloween items, and anything with cats. She was also a dedicated fan of the rock band the WHO.
Peggy is survived by two brothers, Clifford (Veleda) Banta and Randy (Victoria) Banta, both of Unadilla; one sister, Connie Marcus of Utica, and her special uncle, Richard Banta, at home. Also surviving are her niece, Barbara (Don) Pierce; nephews, James (Diana) Banta, Gabriel Marcus and Thomas Banta; aunt Jane Winchester, several cousins, and good friends Joanne and Don Rickard.
Peggy was predeceased by her parents, her cousin, Judy Rose, who with her husband, Fred, supported Peggy and Connie during Peggy’s initial surgery, and her very special cat, Texas.
The family would like to thank Drs. Kathleen Laveaux and Danielle Knight; FNP Patty Jacob; nurses Brenda, Teresa, Regina, Becky, and Sara; also Judy, Gayle, Brenda and all of the many support staff at Bassett Cancer Institute in Oneonta for their excellent care and compassion. Another thank you to Hospice staff who supported us during Peggy’s final days.
There will be no calling hours. Online condolences may be made through the Westcott-Madden Funeral Home of Unadilla, (www.wmaddenfh.com). A private graveside service will be held at the family’s convenience. Donations in Peggy’s memory may be made to Catskill Area Hospice or the Unadilla Food Pantry.