Jean Frances Taylor

June 15, 1932 - August 14, 2012

Jean Frances Taylor made her peaceful transition into eternal life on Tuesday, August 14, 2012 at the age of 80 years. She was born on June 15, 1932, in Alexandria, Virginia where she lived all of her life. Jean was one of nine children born to the late Charles “Charlie Buck” and Virginia Jackson. She was preceded in death by two brothers Charles Jr. and Earl Jackson. Jean attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School during elementary years. For grades 8-12, she attended Parker-Gray High School, graduating in 1950. After graduation, she began her career with the Federal Government serving 32 years in various agencies including the Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service. Jean was a member of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church from childhood to adult years. She was one of the original members of the St. Joseph’s Gospel Choir. Jean began her affiliation with the Oakland Baptist Church in 2008. During this time she enjoyed attending choir rehearsals with her sister Charlene and Sunday services with her brother Raymond. She accepted the Lord as her Savior and was baptized at Oakland Baptist Church. Jean loved to sing, and at the nursing facility she led the church hymns during Sunday service and the karaoke sing-a-longs. She also loved to laugh, play bingo, and dance. She had a flair for fashion and was always quick to comment on one’s hairstyle or clothing. On December 28, 1996, Jean suffered cardiac arrest which placed her in a coma and on life-support for 12 days. The family was told that she would not likely walk, talk or breathe independently. On the day the family gathered to make a decision, God opened her eyes and allowed her to breathe without the support of the oxygen machine! As a result, many individuals, as well as her doctors, referred to her as the “Miracle Lady.” After much therapy, Jean was able to walk, talk, and return to her hobby of bingo, where she could easily play 15 boards at a time. Though hospitalized for several years with serious health issues, she continued to rally back. Jean’s life partner (husband) of 60 years was Donald L. Taylor. Their union produced two children: Yvette Taylor (Lewis) and Darnell Taylor. Jean was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. She loved her children, especially her grandchildren and great-granddaughter. She always perked up when they came to visit. Memories of Jean’s precious life shall be forever etched in the thoughts and minds of her devoted husband Donald Taylor; daughters Yvette (Herbert) Lewis, and Darnell Taylor; four grandchildren: Brian Lewis, Ericka Lewis, Curtis Boxley, Donye Taylor; and great-granddaughter Kari Shields. Also surviving are four sisters: Doris Adkins, Helen Brown, Charlene Dendy, Virginia Becks-Johnson; two brothers: Raymond Jackson, Jake Jackson and a number of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends whom she dearly loved. The viewing and visitation will be held at Oakland Baptist Church, 3408 King Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22302 on Thursday, August 23, 2012 from 10 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m., Interment is scheduled for a later date. Please send all floral tributes to Oakland Baptist Church the morning of the service.