In Memory
Mamie Frances Taylor
September 18, 1925 ~ November 23, 2024
Mamie F. Taylor, a vibrant soul who lived a full and rich life, gracefully passed away, surrounded by her loving West Coast family, on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at the remarkable age of 99.
Born on September 18, 1925, in South Bend, Indiana, Mamie's life was a testament to love and commitment. Mamie was the cherished daughter of Lee & Lillie Howell. She met the love of her life and soulmate, Thomas E. Taylor, at Central High School, and they married in San Diego while Thomas served in the Navy. Their enduring union lasted an inspiring 75 years, exemplifying deep love and commitment. Together, their love blessed them with five wonderful children: William Thomas (Tommie) (Bernadette), Jacqueline (Cash), Lesley, Toni (Terry), and Sherry, who sadly preceded her in death. Mamie also reunited in spirit with her parents, Lee and Lillie, and her beloved sisters and brothers, Bobbie, Hattie, Sylvia, Willie, Rufus, Charles, and Henry, followed by her living sisters Joan and Henrietta.
Mamie's commitment to her church was unwavering, and as a devoted First AME Zion Church member for over 50 years, she found joy and purpose in her spiritual community. Her faith and devotion were evident in her roles on the Usher Board, Church United Women, and the Trustee Board. One of her proudest moments was the opportunity to travel to Israel and Egypt, experiences that enriched her soul.
Mamie exemplified leadership and compassion. Before retiring in 1991, for 19 years, Mamie dedicated her career to the Employee Benefits Office as a benefits service representative for Clark Equipment Co. Mamie was proud to be an alumna of the South Bend Drifters, Inc., serving faithfully for over 55 years. She engaged wholeheartedly in numerous organizations, including the Eastern Star, where she served as Worthy Matron for two years with the Odessa Chapter #28 of the Order of the Eastern Star and was a member of the Daughter of Isis, Mamie was a member of Church Women United, the NAACP, and the Urban League, and she cherished her time as a member of Putt Putters Black women’s golf league and the local Black Golfers Association in South Bend.
Mamie dedicated over 40 years of service as an election inspector at Perley School and welcomed family, friends, and newcomers to South Bend with open arms, creating a loving environment for all who were fortunate enough to be part of her life. Her legacy of love and generosity will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Throughout her vibrant life, Mamie spent most of her 99 years in South Bend but many winters in Southern California, where her love will be profoundly missed by her five children, 12 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren a wide circle of cousins, friends, and associates who were all touched by her unwavering kindness and steadfast spirit.
Funeral services for Mamie will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 16, 2024 at Palmer Funeral Homes-West Chapel, 2702 Lincolnway West, South Bend. Friends may visit with the family beginning at 10:00 a.m. until the start of services. Entombment will immediately follow at Highland Cemetery in South Bend.
Online condolences may be left for the family by visit www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
12/20/2024 djb
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