Obituaries

In Memoriam: Longtime Fair Havenite Elizabeth Howard Taylor, 95

Longtime Fair Havenite, Elizabeth Howard Taylor has passed away. She was 95.

The daughter of the late Clinton and Elizabeth Howard, she was born on Nov. 21, 1928 in Long Branch.

As a youth, Elizabeth grew up on her family farm in Fair Haven, where she met and later married Raymond Taylor, Sr., who also grew up there.

“Elizabeth and Raymond Taylor loved the small town of Fair Haven and 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.

“A cherished resident of Fair Haven, she 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 Fair Haven. And let us not forget the time when Elizabeth and Sally Lou found themselves in Jamaica, where the famous actor Chevy Chase mistook her for the equally legendary Elizabeth Taylor, bringing a hearty
laugh to everyone present.

“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.”

Loved ones of Elizabeth Howard Taylor in her obituary

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, New Jersey.

“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.”

Elizabeth Howard Taylor’s family

She is predeceased by: her parents; brothers Herbert, Clinton, Rudolph, Porter, Whalen, Maurice, 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, of Pennsylvania; son Edward W. Taylor and his wife Sibyl, of Missouri; son, Ronald Taylor, of Red Bank; son, Marc Taylor and his wife Nina, of North Carolina; son, Tracey Taylor and his wife Leslie, of Long Branch; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives, and dear friends.

Visitation will be held at Fisk Chapel AME Church, 38 Fisk St, Fair Haven, NJ 07704 on Thursday, Feb. 8, from 10 to 11 a.m., with the funeral service to begin at 11 a.m.. Burial will follow the service at Monmouth Memorial Park, Tinton Falls.

— Edited obituary prepared by family via Thompson Memorial Home

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