Elizabeth Taylor, 95, daughter of the late Clinton and Elizabeth Howard, died Feb. 4, 2024. She was born Nov. 21, 1928, in Long Branch. As a youth, Elizabeth resided on her family farm in Fair Haven. She later married Raymond Taylor Sr., also of Fair Haven.
Elizabeth, a cherished resident of Fair Haven, devoted over 40 years of her life to household service roles, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion and connection within her community. Her unwavering dedication touched the lives of countless families, forging deep bonds and friendships. It was during this time that she formed a profound connection with her dear friend, Sally Lou, both sharing the vibrant tapestry of life in the small town.
And let us not forget the time Elizabeth and Sally Lou found themselves in Jamaica, where the famous actor Chevy Chase mistook Elizabeth for her equally legendary namesake, bringing a hearty laugh to everyone present.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Elizabeth exuded warmth, kindness and a genuine devotion to those around her. Her home has long been a sanctuary for her loved ones and friends. Later, it would also be a familiar resting stop for the beloved pups and dogs of River Road, who eagerly awaited her generous treats and affection.
Despite her petite stature, Elizabeth was known for her strong spirit and unwavering determination, earning her the endearing nickname “Dynamite Granny.”
Elizabeth took immense joy in nurturing her relationships, especially with her cherished children and their families. Their stories and accomplishments were the heart of her conversations, woven into the fabric of her daily interactions with neighbors, friends and newcomers alike.
Elizabeth’s heart swelled with pride and joy in the presence of her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins, each one a precious source of happiness. Alongside her beloved husband Raymond, Elizabeth found solace and community in their steadfast membership at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Little Silver.
Elizabeth and Raymond looked forward to when everyone would gather each summer for the Fair Haven Firemen’s Fair. Elizabeth, with her infectious spirit, loved to dance, especially to the soulful tunes of the legendary Barry White.
In honoring Elizabeth’s extraordinary life, let us carry forward her legacy of compassion, love and unwavering dedication to those around us. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Herbert, Clinton, Rudolph, Porter, Whalen, Maurice and Winfield; and sisters, Bessie, Jackie, Bella, Elsie and Gladys.
Elizabeth leaves behind to cherish her memory: daughter Sandra Taylor of Fair Haven, mother of Elizabeth’s first grandchild, Gary R. Taylor of Maryland; daughter Jean Thomas and her husband Rodney W. Thomas of Neptune; son Raymond Taylor Jr. and his wife Bernadette Connolly-Taylor of Pennsylvania; son Edward W. Taylor and his wife Sibyl Taylor of Missouri; son Ronald Taylor of Red Bank; son Marc Taylor and his wife Nina Lawrence Taylor of North Carolina; son Tracey Taylor and his wife Leslie Taylor of Long Branch; along with a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and dear friends.
Visitation and a funeral service were held Feb. 8 at Fisk Chapel AME Church, Fair Haven. Burial followed at Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls.
Thompson Memorial Home of Red Bank has been entrusted with the arrangements.
This article originally appeared in the February 15 – 21, 2024 print edition of The Two River Times.
