Frances "Granny" R. Bannister nee Romano, age 72 of LaPorte and formerly of Hammond, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 15, 2016 after bravely fighting a long illness. Loving mother of SarahRose (William) Cothran. Proud grandmother of James (Lynette) Bannister and Nicholas Cothran. Beloved sister of Frank Romano, Dominick J. (Wanda) Romano, and Rose (Phil) Romano. Fond aunt of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her husband of 35 years Ray A. Bannister, her parents Frank T. Romano and Sarah L. Romano nee Oliverio, and her brother Rosario Romano. Frances graduated from Hammond Tech. She owned Romano's Restaurant and Lounge with her husband Ray in North Hammond for over 30 years where she loved entertaining all she came in contact with. She enjoyed reading, crocheting, ceramics, listening to her music, baking, and celebrating the holidays with her family. She was loved by many and will be missed by even more. Family and friends are invited to meet with the family for a celebration of Frances's life on Friday, January 22, 2016 from 3 PM until 8 PM at LaHAYNE FUNERAL HOME, 6955 Southeastern Ave., Hammond, IN. Funeral Service Saturday, January 23, 2016 at 11 AM with Rev. Stanley J. Dominik officiating at LaHAYNE FUNERAL HOME. Interment at St. John Cemetery, Hammond, IN For further information regarding services, please contact LaHAYNE FUNERAL HOME at 219/ 845-3600.

11:00 AM Service on Saturday, January 23, 2016 with Reverend Stanley J. Dominik officiating at LaHayne Funeral Home located at 6955 Southeastern Avenue, Hammond, Indiana 46324