Patricia Ann Taylor

Patricia Ann Taylor was born on December 13, 1942, in Century, Florida, to the late Sylvester Taylor and Azzie Lee Taylor. She grew up in a close-knit family and graduated from George Washington Carver High School, where she build a foundation of pride, strength, and perseverance that carried her through life. 

In 1972, Patricia made her way to Los Angeles, California to be with her sister Gayle Ann Taylor during the birth of her daughter, Latisha Taylor. That act of love and support was just who Patricia was - always putting family first, always showing up when you needed her. Soon after, she joined Mount Carmel Baptist Church, where her faith grew deep roots and her loving spirit became part of the church family.

Patricia worked hard all her life. She started her career making watches in a warehouse, later joining the Los Angeles Unified School District, where she dedicated many years of service until her retirement in 2010. No matter where she was, Patricia was known for her steady presence, her honesty, and her warm heart. 

She was the kind of woman who would tell you the truth - plain and simple - but never with judgment. Patricia had a way of making people feel seen and loved, no matter where they were in life. She believed in doing right, treating people right, and letting love lead the way. Her home and her heart were always open.

Patricia was a loving sister to Sylvester Taylor, Jr. (deceased), Gayle Ann Taylor (deceased), Gloria (Neil) Taylor (deceased), and Cedric Taylor. She shared a lifelong sisterhood with her honorary sister, Linda Chapman. 

She leaves behind her beloved daughter, Anika Taylor, and her grandson, Lamar Taylor, who were the lights of her life. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Nichelle Taylor, and we find comfort knowing they are reunited in God's loving arms. Patricia also cherished her great-grandchildren, Nyla and Lamar, Jr., who brought her endless joy. 

Her love and wisdom live on in a host of nieces and nephews: Timothy (Rochelle) Taylor, Kelvin (Kim) Taylor, Anton Taylor, Shawn (Kim) Taylor, Chandra Taylor, Latisha Taylor, Matthew (Christina) Smiley, Cedric Taylor, Jr., Tiquale Taylor, Shayla Taylor, Jestin (Kathleen) Taylor, Anthony Clayton, Jr., Princess (David) Taylor-Willins, Alisha Taylor, Kiaira Taylor, Mekhi Smiley, Rozlyn Taylor - along with many extended family members and friends who will carry her memory forever. 

Patricia lived her life with a quiet strength, deep faith, and unconditional love. She was the safe space for everyone who came to her - a listening ear, a guiding hand, and a heart that never judged. She loved her people, her church, her music, and a good laugh. 

Her presence will be deeply missed, but her spirit will forever live in the hearts of all who knew her. Her life was full of love. Her faith was unshakeable. Her heart was open to all.