Surrounded by the love of her family, Em Dorothy Taylor passed away peacefully at her residence, Jubilee Lodge, in Edmonton on February 21, 2011.
Em will be missed by many—her relatives, friends and acquaintances who will remember her quick wit and outgoing personality. Em enjoyed being with people and made friends wherever she went. She was born in Grand Falls, Newfoundland, where she worked and lived until fate led her to meet Jim Taylor, who was stationed in Newfoundland with the R.C.A.F during the war. They were married on Sept 14th. 1944, and coming out west, they eventually settled in Leduc, where Jim continued his pharmacy career. There they raised three boys, Bill, Robin and David. One of Em’s loves was the Girl Guides, and she happily worked with them for over 40 years. She also enjoyed competitive sports and was a long-time member of the Order of the Eastern Star. After Jim passed away in 1972, she raised David and successfully overcame numerous obstacles as a single mother. Later, Em lived in Lacombe for a number of years, close to her beloved cottage at Gull Lake where her children and grandchildren loved to go. Ill health in her later years forced her into care facilities where her family saw to her comfort and happiness.
Em was predeceased by her husband Albert James and infant son Terry, as well as sisters Hazel, Lucy, brothers Gordon and Jack, father Albert and mother Clara May. Missing her very much are her sons Bill (Gail), Rob (Carol), and David (Kim)–semicolon– her nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister Edie (Gordon), brother Don (June)–semicolon– sister-in law Marg, brother-in-law Ray –semicolon– numerous nieces and nephews and many friends.
The family is grateful for the compassionate care she received at Jubilee Lodge and for the help of Dr. J. Reilly of Edmonton and previously, Dr. M. Kirwan of Wetaskiwin.
Edna Dach says
My deepest sympathy to the family. Mrs. Taylor was my Girl Guide Captain and someone who made a difference in my life. She started the 1st Leduc Guide Company and later became District and Division Commissioners in hat was then known as Michener Division. My fondest memories is the hiking and camping that we did. We would go out to Tangletrees, the Girl Guide Camp located at Mulhurst on Pigeon Lake. What fun times indeed. Cooking over wood fires, sitting around campfires and learning so much about the out of doors and camping. My other favorite memories is when I would drive Mrs. Taylor to various banquets and meetings. I would be dressed in my ranger uniform and escort her to the various functions. I also felt like her aide-de-camp. I know that she has touched the lives of many girls especially mine and for that I am ever grateful.
May Korobko says
My sincere condolences to the family of Mrs. Taylor. I had the privilege of being invited to attend camp with the Leduc Girl Guides led by Mrs. Taylor. She inspired great enthusiasm for outdoor living and striving to be the best one could be. I will always remember her dedication to all girls including the \”outsider\” – she has been a life-long role model for me and many others who were blessed to be part of her Guiding family.
Judi Wheatley says
On behalf of all the GIrl Guides in Leduc, we would like to say, we are so proud of Mrs. Taylor. Without her enthusiasm, there would have been no Guiding. I hope she would be proud to know that girl guides in Leduc, has been active continuously since 1966 and is still going strong. Thank you. Go well and safely, the lord be ever with you.
Al Pollock says
Please accept our sincere sympathy at the passing of your Mother, Grandmother, and Friend.
We will always remember our visits with your family at the cabin at Gull Lake and especially how EM enjoyed spending time with the children doing crafts, playing games and just generally spending time with \”the kids\”.
She was a very special and unique women whose contributions will not be forgotten.
We have made arrangements for a Memorial Donation in her name at The Girl Guides of Canada.
Al & Joyce Pollock
Harry & Anna Parsons says
You are in our thoughts and prayers at this sad time.I remember the last time aunt Em was home and she knew it would be her last time on the \” Rock \” She wished to see everything-the river,the church and the old parts of town etc. and it was my great pleasure to show her as much as possible. I will always cherish those moments we shared together. May the Lord be with you at this time as you celebrate the life of Emma Taylor. Harry
A donation to the building fund for Memorial United Church will be made in her memory.