Helen Taylor

Helen Ruth Taylor, cherished by many for her nurturing spirit and loving heart, passed away peacefully on December 25, 2024, in Graceville, Florida. Born on April 24, 1948, in Pansey, Alabama, to the late Robert and Daisy Watkins, Helen's life was a testament to her resilience, warmth, and the deep bonds of family.

Helen's journey began as the beloved daughter of her parents and grew to encompass the roles of a devoted wife, a caring mother, a doting nana, and a dedicated sister. She was the treasured matriarch of a family that revered her, including her son, David Lee Kirkland (Jo Ann), her daughter, Vikki Ruth Cheshire (Jason), her sister, Robbie Watkins Douglas (Bill), and sister in law, Sarah Taylor. Helen's legacy of love is carried on through her grandchildren Benjamin Martin, Leigh Ann Ditz (Patrick), Judson, and Emma Cheshire, Taylor Cheshire and Stacie Waddell, as well as her eight great-grandchildren, with whom she shared countless cherished moments.

Helen's family tree was rich and full, with a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, and notably, seven double first cousins, who will fondly remember her for her kindness, her laughter, and the wisdom she imparted. They, alongside her extended family and friends, will forever honor Helen's memory.

Helen was a woman of faith and commitment, as evidenced by her long-standing membership at Cloverdale Baptist Church. After the loss of her beloved husband, Robert Earl Taylor, in 2008, she found solace and support within the congregation of Ridgecrest Baptist Church. There, she continued to nourish her spiritual life, actively participating in several Bible classes, and sharing her light with all those she encountered.

Professionally, Helen's career was marked by loyalty and excellence. Starting as a teller in 1975 at Dothan Bank and Trust—later known as Regions Bank—Helen's dedication and hard work saw her rise through the ranks. She retired in 2003 as an administrator assistant to the president of the bank, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and integrity.

Beyond her professional and spiritual commitments, Helen will always be remembered for her "green thumb" and her love for growing things. Her garden was a vibrant tapestry of life that not only brought beauty into the world but also served as a symbol of her ability to nurture and care for all living things. Her passion for gardening was an extension of her nurturing nature, as she cultivated plants with the same tenderness and attention she gave to her family and friends.

Helen's life was a beautiful blend of her love for her family, her unwavering faith, and her joy in the simple pleasures of life. She approached each day with grace and generosity, leaving a lasting impact on everyone she met. As a wife, she was a partner in the truest sense; as a mother and Nana, she was a beacon of love and guidance; as a sister, she was a confidante and friend; and as a colleague, she was respected and admired.

Though Helen's presence will be profoundly missed, the memories she created, the lessons she taught, and the love she shared will continue to flourish in the hearts of those who knew her. Her spirit, like the gardens she so lovingly tended, will remain a source of comfort and inspiration.

A service to celebrate Helen’s life will be held on December 28, 2024 at 2:00 pm in Sunset Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Dennis Singletary and Rev. Chuck Locke officiating. Helen will be laid to rest beside her husband in Sunset Memorial Park. The family will receive friends from 5:00pm-7:00pm Friday evening at Sunset Funeral Home.