Mary Lou Taylor

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Mary Lou Taylor, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Mary Lou peacefully joined the Lord on Friday, July 14, 2023, at her home near Beebe, surrounded by her loving family. She was 83 years old. Mary Lou is preceded in death by her granddaughter, Sarah Beth Skinner, her daughter-in-law, Terri Taylor, and her sister Connie Gambrell.

Mary Lou was born on December 24, 1939, in Excelsior Springs, MO, to the late Cornelius Woodrow "Woody" Wyble and Thelma Lucy (Lopp) Kirkman. She was a graduate of the class of 1956 in Joplin, MO.

Mary Lou's greatest joy in life was her family. She cherished every moment spent with them including many memorable camping trips, boisterous game nights, and loving family gatherings. Mary Lou was filled with love, smiles, and a wicked sense of humor. She would always bring a smile to everyone that was around her. Mary Lou enjoyed many hobbies, including sewing, crocheting, reading, and spending time with family. She is remembered for her wise advice, specifically, if anyone had any problems she would say, “Say a prayer.” She was always a shining example of grace in the face of adversity.

Mary Lou is survived by her loving husband of nearly 68 years, Don Taylor; their four children: Tim Taylor, Tom Taylor and his wife Deanna, Terrie Skinner and her husband Larry, and Ted Taylor and his wife Deborah; grandchildren: Jill, Justin, Jaren, Heather, Troy, Seth T., Seth S., Katie, and Abbie; great-grandchildren: Hayden, Grant T., Hudson, Caroline, Evan, Olivia, John, Cooper, Halle, Hadyn, Dustin, Alli, Grant S., and Nathan; and her sister Lin Redd (Mike), all of whom brought immeasurable joy to her life. Mary Lou will also be greatly missed by a multitude of friends who cherished her warm heart and kind spirit.

A family-led memorial service will be held 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 18, 2023, at the following location: Beebe Church of the Nazarene, 104 Campground Rd. Beebe, Arkansas 72012.

Arrangements have been graciously overseen by Smith-Westbrook Funeral Home, located at 404 W DeWitt Henry Drive in Beebe, Arkansas 72012.

Those who wish to share their condolences or leave a lasting tribute for Mary Lou and her family may do so at the following online guestbook: www.smithfamilycares.com/westbrook, In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Beebe Church of the Nazarene. 

In honoring Mary Lou's memory, let us remember her profound love for her cherished family and the beautiful legacy she leaves behind. May she forever rest in peace.