Geneva W. Taylor

Geneva was born October 21, 1941, in R.H. Laird Hospital in Kilgore, TX, to the parentage of the late Louisa “nee” Sibley and Charlie Williams. She attended New Hope School, Fredonia, and C. B. Dansby Colored High School, Class of 1960. She attended Texas College with an Associate Degree in Business Administration. She later attended Kilgore College and received her Certification in Floral Arrangement and Design.

She met the love of her life, Cecil Taylor, in 1957 while attending New Hope School. They were married October 28, 1961 and to this union two children were born, Cecil, Jr. and Yemaya. They enjoyed 63 years of marriage until the Lord called her home to glory.

She was a gifted piano and organist. She played for numerous churches starting at the age of ten, including St. John Baptist Church and New Hope Baptist Church until her health failed. She was a faithful substitute teacher in the Kilgore Independent School District for 15 years and loved interacting with the children. She was an active member of the Fannie Rausaw Garden Club for many years and served as president. Geneva also loved interior decorating and creating floral designs for special occasions, such as weddings, funerals, and other occasions.

She was preceded in death by her parents and siblings: Maurine Williams-Eddings, L. C. “Bo” Williams, Frances Henson, Christine Shepherd, and Charlene Dudley.

Geneva leaves to cherish her memory, her husband, Cecil Taylor, Sr.; son, Cecil Taylor, Jr. (Barbara) of Kilgore, TX, daughter, Yemaya Taylor-Daniels (Donald) of Longview, TX; Grandchildren, Tyler Brittain of Longview, TX, Matthew Taylor, Ft. Worth, TX and Chandra Zackery (Daymon) of Kilgore, TX.; special friend/cousin, Juanita Roberson of Tyler, TX and special friend, Jean Wheatfall of Longview, TX. A host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

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