Banfield Funeral Home Obituaries

Welcome to Banfield Funeral Home

Established to serve the Winter Springs community, Banfield Funeral Home is a sanctuary for remembrance, offering compassionate and professional services for those going through the loss of a loved one. Situated at 420 West State Road 434, in the heart of Winter Springs, FL, Banfield Funeral Home combines the comfort of tradition with the convenience of modern amenities, ensuring that every memorial is as unique as the life it honors.

Our Services

At Banfield Funeral Home, we understand that a funeral service should reflect the life of the person being remembered. That's why we offer a variety of services ranging from traditional funerals to more contemporary celebrations of life. Our facility is equipped to host visitations, funeral ceremonies, graveside services, and cremation services, all tailored to the family's wishes. We also provide support in creating obituaries, choosing floral arrangements, and producing video tributes to celebrate your loved one's life.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Edna Donor - August 20, 1925 - April 22, 2024

Departed: 04/22/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Edna Donor, 98, of Apopka, Florida passed away on Monday, April 22, 2024.

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Thelma V. Kostrab Rick - January 16, 1923 - April 20, 2024

Departed: 04/20/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Thelma V. Kostrab Rick, 101, of Lake Mary, Florida passed away on Saturday, April 20, 2024

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Hilde B. Shoaf - August 26, 1937 - April 19, 2024

Departed: 04/19/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Hilde B. Shoaf, 86, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Saturday. April 19, 2024.

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Roger Tully Benham - October 30, 1968 - April 17, 2024

Departed: 04/17/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Roger Tully Benham, 55, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

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Stephen Burke - September 08, 1953 - April 17, 2024

Departed: 04/17/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Stephen Burke, 70, of Oviedo, Florida passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024.

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Robert Thomas Lugering - January 01, 1938 - April 13, 2024

Departed: 04/13/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Robert Thomas Lugering, 86, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Saturday April 13, 2024.

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Dennis Snyder - August 30, 1947 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Dennis Snyder, 76, passed away on Friday April 12, 2024.

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Georgina Colon - April 23, 1923 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Georgina Colon, 100, of Orlando, Florida passed away on Friday April 12, 2024.

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Deyanira Rivera - September 11, 1975 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Deyanira Rivera, 48, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Friday April 12, 2024.

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Carol Adrienne Daniels - October 24, 1940 - April 11, 2024

Departed: 04/11/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Carol Adrienne Daniels, 83 of Orlando, Florida passed away Thursday April 11, 2024.

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Bill Berry Jr. - January 21, 1948 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Bill Berry Jr, 76, passed away on Wednesday April 10, 2024.

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Esperanza Maldonado - June 29, 1947 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Esperanza Maldonado, 76, of Sanford, Florida passed away on Wednesday, April 10, 2024.

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Theodore Vernon Gee Jr. - October 20, 1963 - April 08, 2024

Departed: 04/08/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Theodore Vernon Gee Jr was born on October 20, 1963, in Philadelphia Pa, to the late Theodore V. Gee Sr, and Mary Coley. He had one biological sister Barbara Gee- Roberts who passed away in 2015. Mary passed away when Teddy was 5 years old, and Teddy Sr transitioned on May 11, 2013. At 9 years old Theodore Gee Sr, married Gladys who became a stepmother to Teddy. She had 5 children that Teddy knew as his own brothers and sisters. Sibyl, the late Michael, Steven (Weany), Linnie and Chris Jordan all who predeceased him. Though he was acknowledged by a stepmother, his aunt Lucille was always there for him for all aspects of life as a mother. Darlene Cortez, a lifelong sister,and Ken Foggs his brother were also siblings to him.

Teddy loved to smile and often lived life with little to no boundaries, realizing a great bit of success in his life, but also not immune to trouble. He loved all types of people, especially women. He never intended to hurt anyone, however, knew that there may have been many that did not always agree with his view on life. Teddy was a believer in God, had faith and had a great spiritual foundation, doing some study for a brief time in theology but did not attend church regularly or believe in organized religions. He believed that God loved all people regardless of religion or region of the world. He believed that organized religions were good as a framework for a value system however segmented people’s beliefs around the world of who was better, worse or right or wrong about their beliefs.

He had a couple of interesting philosophies on life, one being that life is a series of choices and expectations. With that he meant and would often quote that” if you have high expectations that your choices must be conducive to those expectations, and if you had low expectations so will your choices be”. He also believed that life in addition to one’s spirituality is made up of three components, and that is genetics, experiences and environments. Blessed with good genetics, more importantly the vast experiences and multiple environments that graced his life helped form who he became.

Ted received his Bachelor of Administration degree at Cheyney University, and completed a master’s level program, finance for executives at the University of Chicago Graduate School of business, as well as the Society of Organizational Learning from the Sloan School at MIT and was a lifelong learner of the Art of Leadership. He graduated High School from Downingtown Industrial and Agricultural School where he was the valedictorian of the class but also attended John F Kennedy High School in Willingboro NJ. His early education was completed between Willingboro New Jersey and Philadelphia Pa. He was a lover of sports, football, basketball, track, body building, and martial arts. He loved motorcycling, reading and philosophizing about the world. Ted joined the Prince Hall Masonic order in Columbus Georgia Lewis Hayden #6 during his time as an officer in the US Army but did not remain active in the organization throughout his life.

Professionally Ted always enjoyed a challenge and would often excel at most of his endeavors and when he would, would often talk trash. He was a global leader within multiple environments that operated at the direct, operational and strategic levels of leadership. He had served as an officer in the United States Army and has held leadership roles from direct level as a front-line supervisor to strategic level roles such as President within a multi-billion-dollar industry pacesetter and as a Chief Operating Officer at MD Helicopters. Ted often broke barriers as a black man such as first black executive at Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company, and first black division President of Pulte Homes. He also received his accident and financial licenses from Washington mutual to be able to sell various insurance and financial planning services to clients, though chose not to pursue a career in sales and chose Corning Inc.

He had been highly successful leading in change environments, start ups, and growth businesses where businesses were often in a change or transformational situations. He has led within multiple companies that produced different products within different industries, including Corning Inc, FMC, Harley Davidson, Ingersoll Rand and MD Helicopters, utilizing strong leadership and effective process management, while always engaging the workforce.

Ted trained in Japan and was an expert in the Toyota Production System or lean methodology. A strong competitor, he was also a former collegiate athlete. He played football at Cheyney and had the opportunity to coach women’s volleyball at Cheyney and high school basketball at Downingtown where he served as JV coach. He was made coach of the year during his first year of coaching basketball and was afforded the opportunity to coach the JV all stars in the league.

Ted ventured into some interesting experiences throughout his life having tried out for the American Gladiators, ran diamonds and gold from central Africa that led to a brokered coffee deal that failed between Africa and Russia that was to deliver 30 tons of coffee for each one of 4 roasting plants to be built in Russia before the government and parliament split and voided all American contracts. He also developed a membership business for military personnel and their families to purchase items direct from manufacturers for big ticket items that they frequently purchased in 1989 before many of the currents ones today were even thought of. This was broken up by the military as a conflict of interest. A true visionary and big thinker well before his time.

He has done public speaking around the world, was a member of a variety of nonprofit boards, and has mentored countless leaders at all levels of the leadership continuum. He was also credited with developing many master black belts, black belts and other continuous improvement experts and mentees around the world. He was a proud volunteer for SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) and most recently as a board member for the Association of Kidney Patients, board of governors for the Urban League, First Tee of NC and SIMs nonprofit music organization in Austin TX and a few others. He was the Founder and President of Live Music Tutor (LPS Enterprises Inc including Live Music Tutor Inc, Wellness At Home Inc, FoodNThings Inc and the yet to be released C2 virtual health a virtual healthcare platform that has not been released to the public yet) and Success Based Intervention (SBI), a leadership development program geared to help organizations and individuals from university through retirement. He was also author of “Hope Is Not A Strategy, simple solutions for doing business in the 21st , which is available on his website www.sbiconsulting.com, Amazon books, Barnes and Nobles bookstores and all other fine book stores in your area and had 2 other books currently scheduled to be released, the first called Bet on You the Trials and Tribulations of the First Billion, and also a book on developing a concurrent methodology within the software industry to put structure and the ability to be more predictable with cost, quality and timing, very similar to traditional manufacturing products.

He recently developed a seminar about life called “your life strategy in 8 hours” which focuses on looking at your life from the end state vs in time periods or 5/10-year chunks. The foundation for this program is the creation of an obituary which highlights the dash but most importantly 4 key questions of the end of your life. 1. How do you want to be remembered? 2. What will you want to have accomplished during your lifetime? 3. What will you want to have seen during your life? 4. What will your legacy be? It is geared to focus one’s life from the end and backwards plan to your current state. Without knowing when the right pillar will show up it forces you to act on your dreams immediately. This helps to define commitment to our careers, relationships and whatever else maybe important to you.

Teddy wanted to be remembered as a good citizen of the world and as one who has helped masses of people to achieve their dreams. He has done this many times throughout his career and the companies that he owns today. He has many accomplishments, primarily in career however he did not feel he did the best he could with his 3 sons. He was very good at a successful career and the material trappings in life, such as the big houses, having seen 6 of 7 continents of the world, nice cars, etc and he was saddened by the fact that despite all these things he could not solve the ills of the world.

He leaves to mourn a special friend Brenda Jones, sons Jamal, Garrett, Julian, Jeff George Jr. who was closest to him and a very special Aunt Lucille Potts who also served as a mother to him. He leaves sister the Reverend Dr Darlene Cortez (Elmer) and brother Ken Foggs (Janet), who donated a kidney to him and gave him over 20 additional good years of life and memories. He also leaves a granddaughter, host of cousins, nieces, nephews, family, friends, and colleagues all over the world. Teddy leaves special friends John Adams, Todd Lee (Chris), Erin Sample, Tim Zetwick (Marylynn), Carl Sharperson Jr (Jackie), Barry Armstrong (Jocelyn), Harold Scott (Cynthia), Shawn Taylor (Natalie), Montez Johnson (Cassie), Chance McCall (Kammie), Cynthia Smith, Bob Smith, Jim Mayberry, Steve Long (Michelle), Thomas Linton (Darlynne), Larry and Laraine Washington, Kyle Sales, Otis Sistrunk David Smith and a special sister in law Marie Jordan and Sylvania Ferguson.

Ted was a foodie and enjoyed many different foods, he loved to laugh, loved the 3 stooges and the philosophies of the Looney Tune cartoons and an occasional Louis XIII glass or two.

Please do not be saddened by the change in status of his life, yet please understand the completeness and legacy of the dash. He lived a great life and now living the remainder of his life sitting with God the father, and in his own words, “he is now taking the long dirt nap”.

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Joseph Kelly - May 31, 1958 - April 07, 2024

Departed: 04/07/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Joseph “Joe” James Kelly, Jr. passed away on April 7, 2024. He was 65.

Joe was born on May 31, 1958 in Darby, PA. He graduated from Bonner High School, Drexel Hill, PA in 1976.

In 1983, Joe married the love of his life, Shirlee, and together, they lived a life filled with love and happiness.

Joe enjoyed golf in his prime along with fishing, cigars and the Florida sunshine.

Predeceased by his parents Joseph J. & Doreen Kelly, Joe is survived by his wife Shirlee Kelly (nee Sides) of 40 years, 4 brothers, 1 sister and a multitude of nieces and nephews in his extended family.

Joe will be remembered as a loving husband, brother, uncle, and friend. His warmth and kindness will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

Funeral arrangements are private.

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Tracy Seely - August 31, 1961 - April 06, 2024

Departed: 04/06/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Tracy Ellen Seely (Stempkowski) departed this world on April 6, 2024, in Longwood, Florida, at the age of 62. Tracy was born on August 31, 1961, in Hammond, Indiana, to James and Helen Stempkowski.

Tracy was a cherished daughter, wife, mother, sister, friend, aunt, and Nana. Everyone who had the honor of knowing and loving her will feel her absence. Her presence meant the world to many. She is survived by her husband Doug Seely, father James Stempkowski, sister Alicia Rivers, children Chris Sherman (Dana), Zak Seely, Bryan Seely, Anya Seely, and Jakson Seely, niece Skye Rivers, and nephews Lee Rivers and Jacob Rivers, along with many cousins. Her cherished grandson Liam Sherman will forever keep his Nana close to his heart. Tracy was predeceased by her mother, Helen Stempkowski.

A graduate of Lyman High School, class of '79, she loved her time as a Greyhound. She continued her education at Troy State University and the University of Central Florida earning a degree in English Language Arts Education. She touched many young lives as a teacher at South Seminole Middle School and Indian Trails Middle School, where she met her husband, Doug. The knowledge and inspiration she left in the hearts and minds of her students will be remembered for years to come. Following a transition away from the classroom, Tracy earned a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix. She took her love of education to the private sector where she developed educational software to enrich the learning of tens of thousands of students across the country through the use of technology in the classroom.

Tracy loved to travel and explore other countries, but Longboat Key, FL was one of her most treasured destinations as this has been a family vacation tradition for four generations. Her greatest joys in life were her children and being “Nana” to her grandson, Liam, who was her pride and joy.

Tracy had a love of music with an angelic voice along with a talent of playing the piano. She was a member of concert and church choirs throughout her life. Tracy was a devoted Christian who led her life by her strong faith in God. She was immensely loved by many as she would light up the room with her smile and a twinkle in her eyes.

Tracy's life will be celebrated on April 19, 2024, at 3 p.m. at Action Church in Winter Park, FL. Flowers may be sent to Action Church or donations may be made to the Epilepsy Foundation in Tracy's honor.

May her strong faith, kindness, love, and cherished memories live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

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Leroy Arthur Hassard - September 11, 1929 - April 06, 2024

Departed: 04/06/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Leroy Arthur Hassard, 94, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Saturday April 6, 2024.

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Jennifer Edward Knight - August 01, 1962 - April 06, 2024

Departed: 04/06/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Jennifer Edward Knight, 61, of Winter Springs, Florida passed away on Saturday April 6, 2024.

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Alvah Earle Wollam - June 11, 1929 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Alvah Earle Wollam, 94, of Oviedo, Florida passed away on Thursday April 4, 2024.

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Nydia Teresa Rodriguez - June 17, 1953 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Nydia T Rodriguez, beloved mother, sister, and friend, passed away on April 4, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love and cherished memories. Born on June 17, 1953, in the city of Barranquitas, Puerto Rico, Nydia touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and unwavering strength.

Throughout her life, Nydia was a devoted mother, raising her children with boundless love and dedication. She leaves behind her daughter, Nydia Martin, and sons, Edward Montanez and Eric Montanez. Nydia also leaves behind several grandchildren & great-grandchildren among them being her grandson, Nicholas Rodriguez, who dedicated himself to caring for her while his parents worked so that she could remain in the comfort of their home. Her love knew no bounds, and her guidance will continue to inspire them throughout their lives.

Nydia's love extended beyond her biological children. She is also survived by her stepchildren: Rosa Montanez, Edwin Montanez, Milagros Montanez, Barbara Irizarry, and their respective children. Her care and affection touched the lives of all those she considered family, regardless of blood relation.

Although Nydia only had a 6th grade education herself, her children and several grandchildren went on to obtain degrees in higher education and/or distinguished military service. Nydia's influence and support played a crucial role in their accomplishments, inspiring them to rise above their humble beginnings and continue striving to be better.

Nydia was also a beloved sister, survived by her sisters Petra Rodriguez, Carmen Rodriguez, and Mirta Rodriguez. Together, they shared a bond of family that was unbreakable, supporting each other through both joyous moments and difficult times.

Her memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her, as she touched the hearts of everyone she met. Nydia will be remembered for quick wit, generous spirit, and her unwavering love for her family.

Though she may no longer be with us in person, Nydia's legacy of love and generosity will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. As we mourn her passing, let us also celebrate the life she lived and the profound impact she had on all who knew her.

A funeral service to honor Nydia's life will be held at Banfield Funeral Home on April 10th 2024. Viewing will be at 1pm followed by service at 3pm. All who knew and loved Nydia are invited to attend and pay their respects.

Nydia T Rodriguez will be deeply missed but never forgotten. May she rest in peace, surrounded by the love of those who have gone before her, and may her memory continue to bring comfort to all who knew her.

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Michael Alan Jenkins - March 21, 1956 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Michael Alan Jenkins, 68, of Sanford, Florida passed away on Thursday April 4, 2024.

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Botine D. Diorne - September 25, 1948 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: In loving memory of a remarkable woman, she

Born on a bright September day in 1948, in the beautiful town of Petionville, Haiti, your mother brought warmth and love wherever she went. Married to her beloved Jonathas Diorne for over four decades, their bond was a testament to enduring love.

As a mother, she was the epitome of care and affection, nurturing her three precious children – Datude, Shirley, and Jony – with unwavering devotion. Though her formal education ended at high school, her wisdom and guidance knew no bounds.

With a talent for fashion, she crafted beauty with her hands, leaving a mark as a gifted designer, then she embarked on a new chapter, embracing life in the United States with courage and grace.

Her legacy extends beyond her immediate family; she embraced her role as a guardian to her grandchildren – Germica, Naisha, and Jo-Dashly – showering them with love and wisdom.

But her love didn't stop there. Many nieces and nephews found solace and guidance in her arms, for she was not just a mother, but a protector and a supporter. Her kindness knew no bounds, and she never hesitated to lend a helping hand.

She loved going to church, She enjoyed dancing a lot; it always put a big smile on her face. She was amazing at cooking and baking; the yummy smells used to fill our home. Mom had a great sense of humor; her jokes made us laugh so hard. And whenever we needed help, she gave the best advice, like a caring mother should.

In the tapestry of life, she wove threads of love and compassion, leaving behind memories that will be cherished forever. Though she may have passed from this world, her spirit lives on in the countless lives she touched.

She was not just a mother; she was the heart of her family – a "manman base" whose love knew no bounds. May her legacy of love and kindness continue to inspire us all.

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Lawrence Patrick Magilligan - September 28, 1935 - April 03, 2024

Departed: 04/03/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Lawrence P. Magilligan (9/28/1935 – 4/3/2024)

Lawrence (Larry) Patrick Magilligan died peacefully of natural causes on Wednesday April 3, 2024 at the age of 88 in Oviedo, FL.

Larry was born on September 28, 1935 in Brooklyn, New York to Lawrence Edward Magilligan and Rosemary McLaughlin Magilligan. He was the youngest and only boy of four siblings with three older sisters, Patricia, Jean, and Rita. They grew up in Glen Head and then Massapequa, NY. Larry graduated from Chaminade H.S. in Mineola, NY and continued his academic and athletic pursuits, attending The College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, MA and then Hofstra College (now University) in Hempstead, NY. Larry played quarterback at both schools and lettered in both football and track at Hofstra. He was part of the famous “Tiny Twenty” football team of 1956, where only 20 athletes managed to win seven of ten games that year against larger, stronger, and bigger teams. The Tiny Twenty is one of the most revered teams in the university’s history.

While attending Hofstra, Larry was accepted into the Platoon Leaders Class officer commissioning program in the United States Marines Corps, completed two summers of Officer Candidate’s School in Quantico, VA and was commissioned a Second Lieutenant upon graduation in 1958. Arriving on active duty in Quantico at The Basic School, he resumed playing quarterback for the Marine Corps football team. After completing training as an Artillery Officer, Larry was stationed in Hawaii and continued to play football for the Marine Corps team based on Oahu. He has many stories of his teammates and his time playing football both in college and the Marine Corps – memories of which he carried throughout his life. Larry served on active duty for 4 years and then stayed actively involved in the USMCR. He held numerous staff and unit command billets in the reserves until celebrating his retirement from the United States Marine Corps Reserves after 32 years of service as a Colonel in San Diego, CA in May 1988.

As Larry completed his active-duty period and transitioned over to the USMCR, he concurrently began his civilian career with Continental Can Company in Baltimore, MD. His Continental Can career took him to St. Louis, MO, then moved over to Georgia Pacific in St. Louis, then up to Chicago with the company. After leaving Georgia Pacific, Larry began numerous entrepreneurial endeavors, but never straying far from his labeling, printing, and packaging background. Larry also enjoyed public service and volunteering later in life – especially during election years working at the polling stations.

Larry enjoyed travelling the globe, taking many trips, jaunts, and cruises with his wife Medy. They loved traveling and always made it an adventure whenever and wherever they went, especially when flying “Space-A” (space available) on military flights around the world. Whether in Western/Eastern Europe, the Philippines/SE Asia, or The Holy Land, flexibility, fun, and making friends were always the name of the game for their traveling regimen. Larry especially enjoyed trips to the Philippines to visit Medy’s family and friends. He also liked to host gatherings, “cook a little chow and have a few beverages” and tell stories – sometimes in great (long) detail – but always open and ready for a good discussion. He was an avid sports fan across all spectrums, from football to horse racing, often gathering with friends to watch, wager, and stay appropriately hydrated during the contests.

Larry was very committed in his Catholic faith his entire life. He was extremely active in his parish in Winter Springs – St. Stephen Catholic Family Community. Larry previously served as a Eucharistic Minister (EM), a dedicated member of the RCIA team, played Saint Andrew in the Living Last Supper production, EM for Assisted Living, and numerous other activities and events in support of St. Stephens. He particularly enjoyed supporting the military veterans in the parish community.

Larry is survived by his loving wife Mediatrix (Medy) Altamirano Magilligan; children from previous marriage: Lawrence Patrick Magilligan (Tamorah), Cary Therese Magilligan, Michael Joseph Magilligan (Deborah); grandchildren Collin Patrick Magilligan, Lyndsey Rae (Magilligan) O’Mara, Reed Patrick Magilligan, Brett Matthew Magilligan, Matthew Joseph Magilligan, Sophia Frae Magilligan; and 7 great grandchildren.

Larry is predeceased by his father Lawrence Edward Magilligan, mother Rosemary McLaughlin Magilligan; sisters Patricia (Magilligan) Dray, Jean (Magilligan) McKenna, Rita (Magilligan) Butler, and Nancy Magilligan. Visitation and Vigil to be held on Thursday, April 18, 2024 from 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm EDT​ Banfield Funeral Home 420 W. State Rd. 434 Winter Springs, FL 32708 (407)327-1500 Funeral Mass to be held on Friday, April 19, 2024 @ 10:00 am EDT ​​​​​ St. Stephen Catholic Community 575 Tuskawilla Road Winter Springs, FL 32708 (407)699-5683 Rite of Committal to be held on Tuesday April 23, 2024 @ 10:00 am EDT Queen of Angels Catholic Cemetery 1901 Queen of Angels Drive Winter Park, FL 32792 (407)450-6721

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Sandra Darby - October 20, 1954 - April 02, 2024

Departed: 04/02/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Sandra Bennett Darby, 69 of Winter Springs, Florida left us to be with her Lord and Savior on Tuesday, April 2, 2024.

She fought a courageous battle with breast cancer for over six years, relying on her strong faith, loving family and friends, and is now at peace.

She is survived by her loving Granddaughters, Emily Ratliff of the home; Jane Ratliff of Las Vegas, NV; Sister Barbara Rhodes of Saint Augustine, Florida; Niece Jacqueline Kirby of Saint Augustine, Florida; friend and companion James Nickles, and many loving friends.

She was predeceased by her loving daughter Deborah Ratliff, mother Cleta Gertrude Dowell, and father George Ernest Bennett.

She operated a house cleaning service business with many clients that became like family for twenty five years or more.

Donations or memorials can be made to Northland Church of Longwood Florida, the Share Center of Longwood Florida, and the American Cancer Society.

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Mary Stella M. Abbott - December 12, 1939 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Mary Stella M. Abbott, 85 of Orlando, Florida passed away Monday April 1, 2024.

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Robert W. James - July 07, 1939 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Winter Springs)

Obituary Preview: Robert W. James, 84, passed away Monday April 1, 2024.

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Personalized Care and Support

We believe that support and guidance are paramount during your time of grief. Our dedicated staff is trained to guide you through the decision-making process, providing insight and information with the utmost sensitivity. We take the time to understand the life of the individual and the wishes of the family, ensuring each ceremony truly reflects the person being memorialized. From the first call until long after the service concludes, we're here to help you honor your loved one in the most personal and fitting way.

Planning Ahead

Banfield Funeral Home recognizes that planning a funeral can be overwhelming, especially amid the grieving process. This is why we offer pre-planning services for those who prefer to make arrangements in advance. Pre-planning not only relieves the emotional burden on family members but also ensures that final wishes are respected and decided upon without haste or pressure. Our staff can help you create a plan that fits your needs and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Our Facilities

Ease and comfort are integral to the funeral home experience, and our facilities reflect this understanding. Banfield Funeral Home is designed to offer a peaceful and accommodating environment for families. We maintain a spacious visitation room, a serene chapel for services, and private areas where families can gather in peace. Additionally, our home is fully equipped to accommodate various spiritual and cultural practices, ensuring every family feels welcomed.

Community Involvement and Support

Our commitment at Banfield Funeral Home extends beyond individual services. We believe in the strength of community and actively engage in local events and support groups to help our neighbors. We offer educational resources about grief and healing and are present during local memorials and events that honor and remember loved ones. Our involvement is a testament to our dedication to the people of Winter Springs and our understanding that healing is an ongoing process.

Online Tributes and Resources

We keep pace with the digital age by offering online tributes accessible from anywhere in the world. By providing a digital guestbook, families and friends can share memories, photographs, and messages of love and condolence. Our website serves as a resource for those who cannot attend services in person and ensures that everyone has the chance to partake in the grieving and healing process. Additionally, we offer a wealth of information about grief, aftercare, and the various aspects of funeral planning on our website to aid and educate those in need.

Contacting Banfield Funeral Home

In your time of need, the staff at Banfield Funeral Home is here to assist you with compassion and professionalism. Whether you're in the initial stages of grief, planning to arrange services, or inquiring about pre-planning, our team is ready to provide the information and support you need. You can reach us by phone, email, or by visiting our location on West State Road 434. We encourage you to contact us with any questions or if you need immediate assistance, as we are available 24/7 to support the Winter Springs community.

A Commitment to Compassionate Care

Banfield Funeral Home is more than a facility; it's a place where memories are cherished, and lives are celebrated. Our team takes pride in our commitment to serving families with tender care during their most difficult times. We remain devoted to delivering services that respect the dignity of the departed while offering solace and closure to those who remain. At Banfield Funeral Home, every life is valued, and every memory is held dear, as we work to provide a final tribute that is both meaningful and comforting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice of a person's death, typically published online or in print media. It often contains a summary of the deceased's life, information about the funeral or memorial service, and sometimes a photo. It's a way to publicly acknowledge the loss and celebrate the life lived.

Is there a difference between an obituary and a death notice?

Yes, there is. A death notice is a brief announcement of a person’s death, often placed by the family in a newspaper or online and usually includes basic information like the name, date of death, and details of the funeral service. On the other hand, an obituary is more detailed and includes a biography of the deceased, their achievements, and information about surviving family members.

Who writes an obituary?

Obituaries can be written by family members, friends, or the funeral home handling the arrangements. Sometimes journalists or writers may write them, particularly for well-known individuals.

What should be included in an obituary?

An obituary typically includes the deceased's full name, age, city of residence, names of surviving family members, a brief biography, the time and place of the funeral or memorial service, and where to send donations or condolences.

How can I write a touching obituary?

To write a touching obituary, focus on the positives aspects of the person's life, including their passions, legacy, and the impact they had on others. Use personal anecdotes and quotes from loved ones to add emotional depth.

Where are obituaries normally published?

Obituaries are typically published in local newspapers, both in print and online, as well as on dedicated memorial websites. They may also be shared on social media platforms.

How long after death is an obituary published?

Obituaries are usually published within a week after death, allowing time for the family to make arrangements and provide information, but the timeframe can vary.

Is it mandatory to publish an obituary?

No, publishing an obituary is not a legal requirement, but it is a customary way to inform the community of the person's passing and to share information about the memorial services.

Can an obituary be published online only?

Yes, with the rise of the internet, many obituaries are published online, either on funeral home websites, social media, or dedicated memorial sites.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper or website?

To submit an obituary, contact the publication or website directly to find out their submission guidelines, including length, format, and costs, if any.

Is there a cost associated with publishing an obituary?

Many newspapers and publications charge a fee to publish an obituary. The cost may vary depending on the length of the obituary and the specific publication. Some online platforms offer free or low-cost options.

What if I don't know all the details about the deceased?

It's important to be as accurate as possible, but if you don't know all the details, focus on what is known. You may also reach out to other family members or friends for assistance.

Can I include charitable donation requests in an obituary?

Yes, it's common to include requests for charitable donations in lieu of flowers. Be sure to include the name of the charity and any necessary contact information or links.

How do I deal with negative aspects of the deceased's life in their obituary?

Obituaries are meant to focus on the positive. You are not required to include every aspect of someone's life, particularly those which are controversial or negative.

Can anyone post an online obituary?

Yes, most online memorial sites allow anyone to post an obituary, but it's respectful to have the permission of the immediate family before posting.

How can I ensure accuracy in an obituary?

Edit carefully, and possibly have another family member or friend review it. You can also fact-check dates and details with official documents or through conversations with other relatives.

What is the proper etiquette for sharing an obituary on social media?

Proper etiquette includes respecting the wishes of the family, not sharing personal details without consent, and ensuring the immediate family has had a chance to notify close relatives and friends first.

Are photos included in obituaries?

Yes, it is common to include a photo of the deceased in an obituary, typically a recent but dignified photograph that represents them well.

How can friends and extended family contribute to an obituary?

They can share memories, photos, and anecdotes with the person writing the obituary. Some families invite contributions via social media or dedicated memorial websites.

Are there legal or ethical considerations when writing an obituary?

Legally, you should have permission from the immediate family or the estate executor to publish an obituary. Ethically, the information shared should be respectful and accurate, maintaining the dignity of the deceased and considering the feelings of their loved ones.

How long should an obituary be?

There is no set standard for the length of an obituary. It should be long enough to cover key details of the person's life and information about the service, but concise enough to stay engaging to readers.

Can I update an obituary after it's been published?

In printed publications, it's not usually possible to update an obituary once it's published. However, online obituaries often can be edited or updated.