Helen Louise Taylor of Mansfield died peacefully in her home, Thursday, Nov. 3, 2016, at the age of 97.
She lived her life devoted to her family, church and community.
Born June 26, 1919, in Butler, Pennsylvania, Helen graduated from Michigan State University in 1941 with a degree in Home Economics. Helen met her future husband, Richard, while attending college when he shouted up the stairs of her sorority house, “Does anyone want to date a redhead?” Always up for an adventure, Helen was the first to respond, “I do!”
Richard and Helen were married on the Michigan State Campus in 1941 shortly after Helen’s graduation. They celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary this past June.
As a young bride, Helen embraced life in her new hometown of Mansfield. She was active in her church, Grace Episcopal, where she was a member of the Altar Guild for nearly 60 years. Helen was also an energetic member of the Mansfield Y.W.C.A., teaching fitness classes to both children and adults. Her dedication to the Mansfield community led her to serve on several boards, including: Mansfield Y.W.C.A., Visiting Nurse Association, and the Women’s Fund of Richland County Foundation.
Joining in 1950, Helen was an dedicated member in the P.E.O. Sisterhood, Chapter AT of Mansfield. She was a longtime member of Buckeye Garden Club of Mansfield, Mansfield Women’s Club, and the Gilded Edge Investment Club. She was an avid Bridge player and an opera and music lover.
For many years, Helen enjoyed attending performances at both the Mansfield Playhouse and the Renaissance Theatre with her son, Jon. Helen was an avid badminton player early in her marriage. After her children were grown, she learned to play tennis and enjoyed playing the courts at Lakewood Racquet Club and Woodland Club well past the age of 90.
She is survived by her husband, Richard Taylor; children, Rick (Carol) Taylor, of Mansfield, MaryJo (James) Hull, of Mansfield, Kay (Fred) Fathe, of Phoenix, Arizona, Mark (Louise) Taylor, of Mansfield, and Scott (JoAnn) Taylor, of Mansfield; sister, Colleen (John) DeVries, of Indiana; and brother, Bill (Jennie) Finik, of Illinois.
Helen was a beloved matriarch and friend to her 11 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her son, Jon, in 2013; brother, Raymond; parents, Cecelia Finik and Harry Finik; and step-mother, Fay.
The Taylor family wishes to thank Rector Emeritus David Sipes and Rev. Joe Ashby, as well as long-time health care aides, Peggy Snyder and Sue Wirick for their continuing support and care of Helen and her family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Grace Episcopal Church, the Renaissance Theatre, or Richland County Foundation-Women’s Fund.
Private memorial services for Helen will be held at a later date. The Ontario Home of Wappner Funeral Directors is privileged to serve the family.
Words of comfort may be expressed at www.wappner.com.
