Shirley Kay Taylor

In Loving Memory of Shirley Kay Taylor

March 29, 1948 - August 3, 2023 (75 years old)

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Shirley Kay Taylor, a woman whose vibrant spirit and warm heart left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Shirley's journey began on March 29, 1948, in La Grande, Oregon, as the beloved daughter of John Erwin Wilson and Evelyn Eckley.

Shirley's vivacious personality was a force of nature, matched only by her iconic big blonde hair. She embraced life with exuberance, spreading joy wherever she went. Many will remember her as an ardent Elvis fan and an enthusiastic bowler. She participated in bowling leagues for numerous years, demonstrating her competitive spirit and dedication.

While Shirley had many passions, her greatest accomplishment was the boundless love she showered upon her family and her vast circle of friends. She cherished each moment spent with those she held dear. But among her greatest joys were her children, James Taylor and Lisa Johnson, who brought immense pride and happiness to her life. Being Nana to her grandchildren was another role she cherished, and her love for them knew no bounds. She often regaled anyone who would listen with stories of Destiney Johnson (James Corum), Meagan (Tanner) Young, Shakayla, Kealah (Kiwi) Johnson, Joshua Taylor, and Stacie Taylor. Her legacy extended to her great-grandchildren, CaleighAnn (Cowee), Benjamin, Brantley, and Phoebe. In addition, she embraced Carmen O'Donnell as an adopted daughter, demonstrating her capacity for love and acceptance.

Shirley's professional journey took her to various places, but it was her time at Yorks Park Grocery that resonated most deeply with the community. Dressed in pioneer attire, she greeted every customer with a warm smile and a friendly word. She was a social hub, a place where connections were made and lives were brightened. She had an uncanny ability to make everyone feel like a friend, as if they had known her for a lifetime.

Her life took a different direction in 2019 when she was diagnosed with cancer. Undaunted, Shirley fought with remarkable strength and determination for four years. Her spirit never wavered, and she continued to share her love and positivity even in the face of adversity. On August 3, 2023, surrounded by her loving children, Shirley peacefully transitioned from this world to the next.

Awaiting her with open arms were her parents, John and Evelyn, her loving husband Ronnie Dean Taylor, her siblings Carolyn Carlton, Cathy Kelly, and Lynette Theroux, foster parents Kate and Harold Sutton, and her first great-granddaughter Faith JuliAnn Winton.

Shirley's legacy lives on through her surviving family: her son and daughter-in-law, James and Kathy Taylor of Baker City, Oregon; her daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and Mitch Johnson of Baker City, Oregon; her sisters Ervina Hoffman of Baker City, Oregon, and Sharon (Boyd) Ables of Glennallen, Alaska. She also leaves behind six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren who will carry forward her spirit and love.

Shirley's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her. Her passion for knitting blankets and her warm conversations with friends will be fondly remembered. A service is being planned, and the date and time will be announced once confirmed. Memorial contributions can be made to Heart' n Home Hospice through Gray's West & Co. Pioneer Chapel at 1500 Dewey Ave., Baker City, OR 97814.

Shirley Kay Taylor's journey touched countless lives, and her legacy will continue to inspire kindness, love, and boundless enthusiasm for life. Rest in peace, dear Shirley, knowing that your presence will forever grace our hearts and memories.

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