Elizabeth “Liz” Ann Taylor, age 85, passed peacefully into the arms of her Lord on April 1, 2024, at her home in Clever, Missouri. Liz was born to Richard and Louella (Potts) Fergerson on November 16, 1938, in Springfield, Missouri. When Liz was a teenager, her family moved from Springfield to Pleasant Hope, Missouri, where she graduated from high school in 1956. Liz was united in marriage to Orville Lee Taylor on December 23, 1956, at New Hope Baptist Church. They remained happily married for 65 years before Lee’s untimely passing on April 1, 2021. The couple was blessed with five loving children: Linda, Rick, Marlinea, Paul, and David.

Liz was a dedicated homemaker and mother who always put family first. She remained a devoted homemaker until all of her children were grown. Liz attended church most of her life, maintained a strong faith, and exemplified Christian values and teachings. Her unwavering faith carried her through many trials and many blessings as well. Liz was a remarkable role model for her children and grandchildren. Her legacy of unconditional love and extraordinary faith will live forever in the lives of those she touched.

For more than ten years, Liz worked as a cook at Woodlawn Manor Nursing Home in Springfield. During her time at Woodlawn Manor, Liz made many friends. Her care and concern for each resident was demonstrated on a daily basis. While Liz had many hobbies and interests, she had a particular passion for animals, especially goats. For several years, Liz participated in countless goat shows throughout the region. When not attending to her goats, Liz loved to crochet. Along with her sister-in-law and friend Shirley, Liz spent innumerable hours crocheting, scrapbooking, and making crafts, especially Christmas ornaments. Each ornament was meticulously crafted and lovingly given to family and friends—many of which still adorn family Christmas trees each year. Nothing, however, brought Liz more joy and fulfillment than spending quality time with her children and grandchildren.

Liz was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Louella Fergerson; husband, Lee Taylor; daughter, Linda Taylor; and son, David Taylor. She is survived by her three children, Rick Taylor and his wife, Dee; Marney Wells and her husband, Robert; and Paul Taylor and his wife, Janet. “Grandma Lizzie” is also survived by 13 grandchildren; 28 great-grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.

Liz’s family will host a visitation on Friday, April 5, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 pm, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield, Missouri. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, April 6, 2024, 1:00 pm, at Pleasant Hope Cemetery, located at 705 N Main Street, Pleasant Hope, Missouri, 65725. Liz will be laid to rest next to her husband, Lee.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Liz’s memory to Watching Over Whiskers, an animal rescue service in Springfield, located in the Southern Hills Shopping Center at 3014 E Sunshine St, Suite E, Springfield, MO 65804 (http://www.watchingoverwhiskers.org/donate.html).

Arrangements are under the direction of Greenlawn Funeral Home North in Springfield, Missouri.