Obituary of Debra Ann Taylor

Debra Ann Taylor was born on April 20, 1956 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.   She was one of eight children from the union of John Wesley Pippens and Emma Lee (Foster) Taylor.   Debra made her home in Chicago, Illinois for many years before moving to Monroe in 1987.  

Debra had a servant’s heart and she enjoyed caring for the needs of others.   She was a mother to all who passed through her door.   She loved to cook meals for her family and friends and was more than willing to share love and good advice wherever it was needed.   She was known to be quite outspoken and wasn’t afraid to “tell it like it is”.  For five years, she was employed as a cook for Holy Cross Children’s Services until her retirement.  

Debra had a great sense of humor and an ear for music often bouncing back and forth while listening to Motown, Gospel, and the Blues.   Although, she was always on the go, Debra enjoyed sitting in her yard and watching the dandelions grow.   She would shop online and watch her favorite TV shows: Dr. Oz and Judge Mathis.   More than anything, Debra cared deeply for her grandbabies.   She received her spiritual nourishment for more than thirteen years as a member of Al Overstreet Evangelistic Ministries.  

Debra Ann Taylor, age 61, of Monroe passed away at home peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday, April 26, 2017.   Her passing was preceded by both of her parents.

To cherish her memory, she leaves five children:  Laronda Taylor of East Point, Tanika Taylor of Monroe, Denisha Taylor of Lincoln Park, Vernon Taylor of Monroe and Jesus Badillo of Monroe; seven siblings:  Earlie B. Watts, Willie B. Taylor, Ivy L. Taylor, Dorothy J. Edwards, Marilyn Harrell, Jerry L. Anderson and John W. Pippens Jr.; eight grandchildren:  Ramonta, Rushell, Roshawn, Juwan, Alyshia, Mariah, Jalen and Alexa; and a very special niece:  Shantell Taylor.

Friends may gather from 11:00am until 1:00pm on Monday, May 1, 2017 at Merkle Funeral Service; South Monroe, 14567 South Dixie Highway (734) 241-7070.   A Family Hour will take place at 12:00pm and Brother Andre’ King of the Church of Christ in Monroe will officiate Homegoing Service’s beginning at 1:00pm.   Procession will then follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial.

Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort, share a photo, or send a floral arrangement by visiting www.merklefs.com.