Judith “Judy” Ann Taylor, age 82, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2022 after a short cancer-related illness with her children and husband of 59 years at her side. Judy was preceded in death by her adoptive parents, Theodore and Leona Schinzel, and is survived by her husband, Addison (Kit), her son, Bryan Taylor, of Salt Lake City and her daughter, Julie Wilke, of College Station.
Judy spent her entire adult life in the service of others. After graduating with a B.S. in Nursing in 1963, she spent the next 57 years in various nursing roles, the last 25 years as a nurse case manager at the Houston Methodist Hospital. She retired at age 79. With her infectious personality, Judy was liked by patients and co-workers and had the unique ability to put people at ease and feel appreciated.
Judy’s passion for helping others extended to her active participation in the Lay Pastoral Ministry Group at Emerson Unitarian Universalist Church. When asked, Judy was always willing to undertake any project for the church.
Judy’s pride and joy were her children and grandchildren. Her children, and their spouses, considered Judy their best friend and most trusted advisor. She was involved in the details of their day-to-day lives. As a gifted listener, Judy could to draw out information without ever asking a question.
Judy adored and had a distinctive bond with her four grandchildren: Madison, Bradley, Matthew and Kate. Between Texas and Utah, Judy cheered on the sidelines of innumerable soccer fields, auditoriums, military ceremonies, musical performances and golf courses. She attended all four grandchildren’s college graduations and one wedding.
Judy was generous and gave thoughtful gifts. She was never too busy to write a letter, make a call, take a trip, watch a dog or visit a resale/book shop. Known for picking out interesting and attractive, greeting cards, Judy always added a few thoughtful, and profound, words.
Judy will be sorely missed, but her memory will live on. She was remarkable and her beautiful full life will continue to inspire all those who knew her. A memorial celebration of her life is planned for the near future.
A memorial service was held on Saturday, November 26 at Emerson. Rev. Michelle LaGrave and Rev. Carolyn Saunders officiated.