JoeAnn Taylor

JoeAnn Hayes Taylor, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and a beacon of compassion in her community, passed away peacefully at home with family by her side on June 7, 2024 in Goffstown, New Hampshire at the age of 85 after a long battle with Parkinson's Disease. Born on July 2, 1938 in Floral City, Florida to Velma Orene Taylor Hayes and Neadom Bartow Hayes, JoeAnn's life was marked by her unwavering kindness and dedication to helping others.

Before retiring, JoeAnn served with distinction, first as a nurse at University Community Hospital, where she was revered by colleagues and patients alike for her gentle touch and comforting presence. Then, after leaving University Community Hospital, JoeAnn was asked by prominent Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon Dr. Ernest R. Cervis D.D.S. to come and work side by side with his team administering the anesthesia while Dr. Cervis performed the surgeries. Her commitment to care was not just a profession, but a calling that she fulfilled every day with grace and humility. She retired in 1985.

JoeAnn's faith was a cornerstone of her life, as she was a devoted member of Shiloh Baptist Church. Her involvement in the church community brought her much joy and provided a foundation of strength from which she drew throughout her life. She embodied the Christian values of love and service. Her legacy continues to inspire those who knew her. She was a faithful Christian and a true prayer warrior. 'If she knew you, she prayed for you daily.' recounts her eldest son.

An avid fisher and reader, she also loved watching Christian television, Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune. JoeAnn found solace and pleasure in the simple joys of life. Her love for these pastimes was only surpassed by the love she had for her family. JoeAnn was predeceased by her beloved husband of 53 years, James Walter Taylor, her father, Neadom Bartow Hayes, her mother, Velma Taylor Hayes and her sister and brother in law, Velma Jean (Charles) Givens. JoeAnn leaves behind a legacy of love of family and cherished memories.

She is survived by her two sons, Rev. Dr. Michael W. Taylor and Joe B. (Toni) Taylor. Her relationship with Toni was so extraordinary that she never referred to her as a daughter in law but rather as 'The Daughter of My Heart.' Without the assistance in caregiving from Toni after numerous surgeries JoeAnn suffered through, the family feels they would have lost JoeAnn much sooner. JoeAnn was a proud grandmother to Jonathan Michael Eastman Taylor, Gregory Scott Eastman Taylor and Sara Marie Taylor. Her Christian example, her loving warmth and her nurturing spirit will be profoundly missed by her family, who take comfort in knowing that one day they will be reunited in Heaven.

Additional survivors include sister, Joyce (Glenn Sr.) Givens, nieces, Glynis (Keith) Crowe, and Melanie Givens, nephew, Glenn II (Cindy) Givens and grand nephews, Trey Givens, Chase Givens, Bryce Givens and Cameron Crowe.

JoeAnn lost a baby boy back in the 50's which resulted in her no longer being able to conceive. So, in her own words, 'God sent us Michael and Joe'.
JoeAnn was thrilled to welcome as family, Michael's biological brother Tim (Kim) Ballard and their sons Alec and Kyle. Tim, Kim and Alec came up three times in two years and visited and cared for their 'Little Miss'. She was so excited that they would take her to stores, put her on a scooter and say, 'It's off to the races' and away JoeAnn would go. JoeAnn fell in love with Tim and his family just as if she'd known them for years . 'They are family now.' JoeAnn said. Michael is not able to attend because of illness but Tim is traveling to New Hampshire to stay with Michael and Kim will speak, on Michael's behalf.

JoeAnn's life was a testament to the power of love and the impact one person can have on the world around them. As we bid farewell to a remarkable woman, we celebrate the enduring light she has left behind. JoeAnn Taylor's memory will forever be cherished, and her spirit will continue to guide us in the days to come.

Friends and family will be received Friday, June 21, 2024 from 10 AM to 11 AM at Shiloh Baptist Church, 905 W. Terrace Drive, Plant City, FL, 33563
Her funeral service will follow at 11 AM. Everyone is invited to a luncheon following the graveside service which will take place at WillowOak cemetery on Hwy 60.
The family would also like to extend their gratitude to Granite VNA Hospice for caring for JoeAnn with gentle tenderness as if she were their own family member. Special thanks to Colette, Caitlan and Ray.
Online condolences can be made at www.haught.care
Funeral arrangements were trusted to Haught Funeral Home, 708 W. Dr. MLK Jr. Blvd., Plant City, Fl 33563
(813)717-9300