Edward Banister

Edward W. Banister, long-time supporter of United Way of the Midlands, passed away November 23, 2021. Giving annually to United Way of the Midlands, first through his employer's workplace campaign, Mr. Banister made provisions to gift nearly $700,000 through his estate plan.

Born and raised in Melbourne FL, Edward worked for Harris Corporation for 40 years, a government defense contractor supporting the US Air Force. In 1969, Ed transferred to Omaha as site manager on the new location, building the company from a staff of one to over 350 by the time he retired in 1997. In 1973 Edward married Helen Hodge, the love of his life, while she was stationed as a meteorologist at Offutt Air Force Base. Married 41 years, Helen passed away in November 2014.

A good friend a co-worker, Frank Bramhall, described Ed and Helen as very private people who lived simple lives, always renting, never owning a home. "Ed was a brilliant manager. He and Helen were very conservative with their money and invested well." Having no children, Ed's estate was distributed equally among eight charities, including United Way of the Midlands.