Tracy M. Richmond-Banks, 52, went to Heaven on April 9, 2015 after a long and courageous battle with breast cancer. Tracy was born on July 7, 1962, to Simon and Gladys Richmond, who predeceased her. She grew up on her family's dairy farms in South Kortright and Guilford, NY. As a child, Tracy was active in all things farm-related, from 4-H clubs to showing cows at county fairs. She graduated from Bainbridge-Guilford Central School and SUNY Cobleskill, and went on to enjoy a 30 year career as a milk tester for Dairy One. She also worked for a time at Exeter Veterinary clinic, and ran a very successful boarding kennel at her home. Tracy found her true love and soul mate in Burton Banks. They were married in a beautiful and courageous wedding on April 3, 2015 at their home in Richfield Springs. Although their time together was too short, it was filled with love and happiness beyond measure. Burt was an unerring support to Tracy, accompanying her to doctor appointments and chemo treatments, taking wonderful care of her, and loving her unconditionally. Tracy is survived by her five siblings, Virginia (Mike) Gustafson, CA, Beverly Richmond, FL, Wayne (Charlene) Richmond, NC, Nathena (Pete) Kain, Norwich, NY and Phil Richmond, Guilford, NY. Family meant everything to Tracy. She had a loving, meaningful relationship with each sibling as well as with her nieces and nephews; Laura, Dan and Taylor Richmond, Patrick, Emily and Lydia Kain, Vanessa (Chad) Aharon, Ryan (Nikki) Richmond, Carrie (Alex) Moyer, and Caitlyn Richmond. She is also survived by six great-nieces and nephews, whom she loved and showered with attention whenever she could. Tracy also leaves her mother and father-in-law, Bruce and Marilyn Banks, who grew to love her in a very short time, her sister-in-law, Debbie (Niel) Miller, brother-in-law, Kevin Banks and family, and step-sons Lucas (Tamara) Banks and Darren Banks. Tracy's passions were her family, her many lifelong friends, and her love of dogs. She remained close with many of her high school classmates, and looked forward to reuniting with them each summer. Several college friends remained close over the years as well. Her numerous kennel customers can attest to the fact that the care she took with their animals went above and beyond that of the average kennel. She had a personal relationship with each customer and each dog. She especially loved to care for her own Golden Retriever pups when they returned for a stay at the kennel. Tracy was a passionate advocate for dogs in need of a good home. Along with some rescues that she took in herself, countless dogs are in much happier and safer homes, thanks to Tracy. Tracy made Herkimer County, her home when she began her career. Although she may not have loved the hours a milk tester must keep, she formed lasting relationships with the farm families she served. She had a deep respect for the business of dairy farming, and a love of the land around her. She never failed to notice the natural beauty in her surroundings. Tracy liked to visit Maine and the Adirondack Mtns, as well as an occasional trip to NYC to see a Broadway show. She enjoyed motorcycle riding for many years. Tracy was an active member of the Springfield Presbyterian Church, where she was an elder. She loved her church family and found many ways to support her church. Above all, Tracy will be remembered for her kindness and generosity. She made everyone feel important in her presence. Her positive spirit throughout her cancer ordeal was inspirational. She rarely complained about her own cancer, but was always supportive of others dealing with the disease. We thank Dr. Bravin, Dr. Patel, and the Cancer Center staff at Bassett Hospital for their work and kindness on Tracy's behalf. Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society. For a more personal remembrance, please consider sending your ACS donation to Herkimer County Relay for Life, c/o Janet McCarty, 5503 US Hwy 20, E.Springfield, NY, 13333. Tracy's calling hours and funeral were handled by J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home in Richfield Springs. Her burial in North Guilford Cemetery will take place at a later date. Calling Hours J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home Saturday, April 11, 2015 04:00 AM - 06:00 PM 40 West James Street Richfield Springs, NY 13439 Funeral Service First Presbyterian Church Sunday, April 12, 2015 12:00 PM ,