Helen Louise Banks, 87

uise Banks, 87, of Hendersonville, died on Friday, March 13, 2015 at the Elizabeth House. She is preceded in death by her parents: J.H. Christian Mitchel and Helen Heilmann Mitchel.

Helen was born in New York City, NY and was an only child. She spent most of her life rescuing and finding homes for animals, mostly dogs and horses. When she moved to Florida from Connecticut in the 80's, she became a founding member of Second Chance for Greyhounds a rescue group that saved thousands of greyhounds from the Florida race tracks. These dogs were placed in homes all over the United States and some in Canada. She continued placing dogs even after moving to Hendersonville in 2006. An interview with Helen about her rescue endeavors and her passion for these animals appeared in Life magazine in 1991. There were numerous other interviews in publications that shed light on the plight of racing greyhounds. She was on the board of directors for Second Chance for Greyhounds and SPAYUSA.

She is survived by her daughters: Candace Burton Reed of Salem WV and daughter Robin Thrush Jovanovich and her husband Peter of Rye, NY. Helen has three grandsons: John McGreevey, William and Nicholas Jovanovich and one great grandchild. She also leaves behind her adored companions: her greyhound Wizard and her beagle Daisy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to any animal charity of the donor's choice. Helen requested that there not be a public service.

An online register book is available for family and friends by visiting www.thosshepherd.com. Thos. Shepherd & Son Funeral Directors and Cremation Memorial Center are in charge of arrangements.