With grace, strength, and unwavering faith, Murlyn Deloris Hamilton Banks, lovingly known as "Penny," completed her earthly journey on January 23, 2025. Born on February 19, 1953, in Palestine, Texas, she was the youngest of twelve children born to George Eddie Hamilton and Evadree Barrett Hamilton.

Penny's spiritual foundation was established early in life at New Chapel Baptist Church. She received her education in the Neches Independent School District, excelling in multiple sports, particularly basketball. Her athletic talents earned her several scholarship offers upon graduating from Palestine High School in June 1970.

Shortly after high school, Penny moved to Dallas, where she married Kenneth McCracken in August 1971. From this union, she was blessed with two children: Kieli Dichelle and Kenneth Jr.

A woman of many passions, Penny found joy in traveling, shopping, and playing softball. She was a skilled pitcher for The Flaming Stars, a team that later became known as Royalty in the early 1980s.

Her professional career was marked by dedication and ambition. She was employed by the City of Dallas before furthering her education at El Centro Junior College, where she earned an Associate's Degree in Law. In 1974, she began her long-standing career as a Paralegal for the Department of Labor's Office of the Solicitor, serving the Federal Government with distinction. Her dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence led to a groundbreaking achievement—she became the first Paralegal in the office to be promoted to a senior-level role, specifically created in recognition of her contributions. Through her trailblazing accomplishments, she opened doors for those who followed. Penny held the title of Paralegal with honor and distinction until her well-earned retirement in 2008.

Penny's love for the Lord inspired her to attend Carver Heights Baptist Church, where she worshiped faithfully alongside her sister, Sammie Brooks. Later, she deepened her walk with the Lord by joining Metropolitan Baptist Church, where she worshiped under the leadership of the late Reverend George W. Payne Sr. and Pastor Chris J. Evans.
In 1983, Penny met Wilbert Banks, and what began as a cherished friendship blossomed into a lifetime of love. They were united in marriage in January 1991, and through this union, she embraced Jennifer Banks and Wilbert Jr. as her own.

Penny's vibrant spirit shone through her love for music, ministry, and mentorship. Her passion for singing, writing, and assisting with Metropolitan's stage performances reflected her creative energy. As a soprano, she enriched the Mass Choir, Sanctuary Choir, and Women's Chorus. She served as Program Chair for the Women's Ministry and gave selflessly through the Bereavement Committee and Mission Ministry. Penny was also a dedicated supporter of the youth ministry.

Penny had a deep love for travel and embraced every opportunity to explore the world with her husband. Whether by car or cruise ship, she cherished the countless adventures they shared, including their annual fishing trips. These journeys were made even more special by the presence of family and friends, reflecting Penny's unwavering devotion to those she loved and her passion for creating lasting memories.

Penny is preceded in death by her parents, George and Evadree Hamilton; her brothers, Alexander Hamilton, Barrett Hamilton, Charlie Hamilton, Paul Hamilton, and Roosevelt Hamilton; her sisters, Sammie Brooks and Oweda Marsh; her beloved mother-in-law and brothers-in-law; and her grandson, Cairee McCracken.

To cherish her memories, she leaves behind one of the sweetest men God created, besides Adam—her husband, Wilbert Banks Sr.; her daughter, Kieli Morrison (Aric); her son, Kenneth McCracken Jr. (Ashley); her stepdaughter, Jennifer Banks; her stepson, Wilbert Banks Jr.; her sisters, Eddieree Gholston (L.J.), Estrada Street, Theresa Cook, Doris Finley; her sisters-in-law, Vanessa Traylor, Dorothy Banks Coye (Perry); and her grandchildren, Dacian Morrison (Shaylee), Desmond Payne, Destinee Payne, Kayla McCracken, Caleb McCracken, Kennedy McCracken, Cai McCracken, Daniel Galloway (LaRhonda); three great-grandchildren; and two special friends/sisters in spirit, Goldie Smith and Jessie Thompson. She is also survived by a host of other aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and beloved friends.