Marissa A. (Walton) Banovz

Marissa A. Banovz, 45, passed away Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at Alton Memorial Hospital.

Born January 1, 1979 in Effingham, she was the daughter of Dr. Samuel and Connie (Ghere) Walton of Effingham.

Marissa was baptized and a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Effingham. She had graduated Effingham High School in 1997, earned a Bachelor Degree in 2001 from Eastern Illinois University, and then her Masters Degree from Rockford University in 2006. She taught in the Bethalto School District at Trimpe Middle School for 23 years, while raising two children, Justin and Brooke, coaching girls basketball and helping with extracurricular sports that the children were involved in as a fan, mom, and fundraiser.

On October 8, 2005 in Effingham, she married Jason Banovz. He survives.

Surviving in addition to her parents and husband are two children, Justin James Banovz, Brooke Annlee Banovz; three brothers, Rob (Linda) Walton of Chicago, Jeff Walton of Effingham, Mark (Heather) Walton of Brewton, AL; brother-in-law, Michael Banovz of Collinsville; and sister-in-law, Francene Pejakovic of Alhambra.

Visitation will be from 12 pm until time of service at 4 pm, Sunday, November 24 at Marks Mortuary in Wood River. Pastor Mike Vaughn will officiate.

Memorials are suggested to the December 5th Fund (www.December5th.org) and/or an Education Fund for her children in care of Crossroads Bank, P.O. Box 783, Effingham, IL 62401.

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