Joan Elaine Taylor

MISS G’S Journey

Joan Elaine Spence came into our world April 14, 1943 and was groomed in the Royalty School of “Spence” legacy. Meanwhile, an amazing man was being groomed in the honor school of “Taylor” to take his place next to her on April 17, 1960. She then gained the name Joan Elaine Taylor and that is when the real journey began. Joan and her husband Ron paved their way in the community of Shrewsbury (Petersfield), Westmoreland. The fabulous union of Joan (Miss G) and Ron (Ronnie) brought four amazing children into the world. Orville (Junior), who passed in December 1999; we are thankful he has been watching over us from the heavenly kingdom. Howard and Glen, no one could ask for better sons and then came the princess of all princesses, Nadz.

The Taylor family moved from Westmoreland to Kingston in 1966 and then on to create life in the United States. There Miss G trained in the field of nursing and worked in that field for many years, while raising all four children, as she continued to groom Ronnie. Ronnie and Miss G was a couple to emulate as they did everything together. They were inseparable. Ronnie always came home to have dinner with Miss G. His first order of business when he arrived home was to greet “G” with a kiss and then they would have dinner together.

For most of the last 14 years, Miss G needed the use of a wheelchair and Ronnie was her primary care giver along with her three children. Ronnie took exceptional care of his beloved wife “G”; he taught all of us the true meaning of LOVE, COMMITMENT and HONOR.

Out of the blue, on December 8, 2022, Miss G complained, “why am I itching so much in my fingers and forehead, I think I need to go to the Emergency Room right away.” She was rushed to Broward Health South Hospital and then transferred to Broward Health North. She was examined and within a few minutes the surgeon came out with a tear in his eye and stated there was nothing more they could do. This situation was very difficult for the family. We all would have loved to have her in our lives forever. However, her assignment here on earth was complete. She is now resting in the arms of her Heavenly Father. May her soul rest in peace.

“For the strength of the Pack is the Wolf, and the strength of the Wolf is the Pack.” Rudyard Kipling

For better… for worse

For richer… for poorer In sickness and in health

To love and to cherish Until parted by death. This is not goodbye G… It’s so long.

I KNOW we will meet again.

Love Ronnie

Dedicated To Mother

I truly believe I have had the best mother that God could give me. I have never had a harsh word with you through all the days. You have been a great example and leader of our family. You have been the leader for so long that it’s going to be very hard to keep going on without you. There is a void in my heart that will never get filled, but I know you want me to keep moving forward. You have always been such a strong and confident example of a woman.

I cried so hard on the long drive to see you at the hospital for the last time. I felt the same way I felt when I drove down to see Junior at the hospital. The pain is so real that I know that only the Lord God will get me through this. I thank God all the time that I was given to you to raise and train. You taught me how to cook, clean, and do so many things; even how to do minor sewing for myself. You also taught me compassion and concern for others. I miss you more than I can put in words. When I think about all that you have been through and done for me, it was always a blessing to help you in any way possible.

I pray that you rest in peace, and I know that the Lord will help me to get through this extremely difficult time. With All the Love that God has given me, I Love You and will always have you in my heart.

Howard

Taylor - son

Throughout my life you taught me “the way” and raised me to be the man I am. I owe everything to you. I would not be the person I am without you.

Love! Respect! Duty! Those were the foundations of your upbringing. You set a standard for us all to live by and for that I am forever grateful to you. My life will go on but a part of me is gone with you. My love for you will never die. I will cherish the memories for all the days of my life. Thank you for being the best mother a son could ask for.

Glen Taylor - son

Our Role Model

Mum set the standard for me as a woman, mother, sister, daughter, wife and most importantly, child of God. I didn’t have to look far for a role model because Mum was the greatest role model of all.

My fondest memory is of our special time together when I was about 5 years old, and Mum worked nights. When I would come home from school, about midday, we would watch her soap operas in bed. She was supposed to be resting so she could be able to work that night but instead we were watching Days of Our Lives.

Another fond memory, again when I was a little girl, we had a school trip to Broadway to see Mary Poppins. I wanted her to come with us and even though she didn’t plan to come on the trip and I’m sure she was tired, she changed clothes, made arrangements and came. It was one of the happiest days of my life.

I feel so blessed to have been granted 56 years with you. Saying goodbye was tough but I knew it was time and I know that you are now resting in your heavenly home.

Sleep in Peace. Love Nadine (Nadz) Sinclair (Taylor) - daughter

The Strength Of A Woman

My mother-in-law, Joan Elaine Taylor, affectionately called Miss G, was simply one of the greatest human beings that I’ve ever known. I first met this wonderful lady over 35 years ago, so I have known her for more than half my life. Throughout those years I found her to be a most compassionate, caring, and loving person, one who put God and family above all else.

I met her daughter, Nadine, while attending college and I recall that day when I was introduced to her parents. I had been away at college for three years and so it was a joy for me to meet two of the loveliest people in the world, Ron and Joan Taylor, who accepted me with open arms into their home and subsequently into their lives. I felt like I had won the jackpot; not only had I found the love of my life, but also two people who would become the best parents-in-law one could ask for. I had a wonderful relationship with Miss G and could talk to her about anything and expect great advice and guidance. Advice on how to keep my wife happy was paramount because as the saying goes “happy wife, happy life.” It was always a joy to be around her and there was, indeed, never a dull moment.

I grew to have great respect and honor for my mother-in-law as I watched her deal with her health issues in the most dignified way. She epitomized the words made famous by Shaggy, “Strength of a Woman” as she played the cards that life had dealt her with poise and grace. One could easily overlook her incapacitation as she remained involved in all aspects of the running of her family and attending all the family events possible. She never missed a beat. Such was the strength and conviction of my mother-inlaw, Joan Elaine Taylor, Miss G.

I will forever be thankful to God for having her in my life, for the quality time we spent together, for the lessons learned, and for the abundance of love that she blessed me with. I will miss the physical aspect of her smile, her laugh, her hug, her talks, and her presence. I will carry on knowing all the memories will forever reside in my heart and soul.

well Miss G. - Turhan Sinclair (son-in-law)

Sleep

Joan Taylor, Mom, you opened your home, your heart, and your love to Duval, Danielle, and me from day one. We have shared a lot of happy times and we have shared heart-broken times but through it all we have shared love, kindness, and joy. I have been truly blessed to have had you in my life. You will always be in our hearts. Thank you for everything. Gone but never forgotten, you will be greatly missed. Sleep our angel -God needs you more.

“Death leaves a heartache no one can heal; love leaves a memory no one can steal.” - Irish Proverb

Val Taylor (daughter-in-law)

Mother T was a special lady and I have been blessed to have had her in my life. One of my fondest memories was the first time I tried making one of my favorite desserts that she used to make, strawberry delight. It did not turn out well to say the least. I remember calling her to let her know that the strawberries and jello that should be on top sank to the bottom and I asked what I did wrong. She laughed so hard! We laughed together and then she told me what I did wrong. She took the time to go through the recipe with me step by step. I will forever appreciate her kindness and the way she warmly welcomed me into the family.

You will be missed, your loving daughter-in-law, Sharon.

Those special memories of you will always bring a smile. If only I could sit and talk again, just like we used to do. You always meant so very much and always will do too. The fact that you’re no longer here will always cause me pain, but my love and memory of you, shall never pass away. Rest in peace Mrs. Taylor until we meet again.

Alisia Taylor (daughter-in-law)

A Celebration Of Life

Because He Lives

God sent His son, they called Him Jesus; He came to love, heal and forgive; He lived and died to buy my pardon, An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives!

Chorus

Because He lives, I can face tomorrow, Because He lives, all fear is gone; Because I know He holds the future, And life is worth the living, Just because He lives!

How sweet to hold a newborn baby, And feel the pride and joy he gives; But greater still the calm assurance: This child can face uncertain days because He Lives!

Chorus

And then one day, I’ll cross the river, I’ll fight life’s final war with pain; And then, as death gives way to victory, I’ll see the lights of glory and I’ll know He lives!

Chorus

Processional

The Celebration Service

Musical Prelude

Opening Sentences Rev. Earl F. Henry Hymn Congregation Because he Lives

Opening Prayer Rev. Earl F. Henry

First Lesson Tashaun Jamison (niece) 1 Corinthians 15:50-58

Psalm 23 Melissa Lynn Spence (niece)

Musical Selection Rod Spence (brother) Rough Side of The Mountain

Second Lesson Jacqueline Spence-Thompson (niece) Revelation 21:3-6

Tributes

Glen Taylor (son) Jacquie Buckley (niece) Ethnie Spence-Newman (sister)

Musical Selection Rod Spence (brother) Morning Train

Remembrance Nadine Sinclair (daughter)

Sermon Rev. Earl F. Henry

Musical Tribute Rod Spence (brother) Scars In Heaven

Prayers Rev. Earl F. Henry

Commendation Rev. Earl F. Henry

Recessional Pre-recorded song played I Was Here

Positive! Strong! Resilient

Beloved Sister - Joan Elaine Taylor, was the second of nine children. Just a few weeks ago, I reminded her how I used to bite her (because mom had us in the same crib), which always invoked laughter.

I can recall G being in the rehabilitation center back in 2008 and our daily talks in her room and sometimes in the garden. As the world turns, during my illness, she comforted me tremendously. G is the sister that comforted all her siblings, that’s how strong and resilient she was. Imagine, while she was sick, she instructed Ron to cook crowfoot for me knowing it was my favorite. Then she would call and say, “I have something for you.” I recently told her she could conduct a class on “Positive Thinking and Resiliency.”

Although we were now hundreds of miles apart, we spoke frequently and occasionally by FaceTime. We will miss you GB - my endearing name for her. May God bless you. You are now in the embrace of Dad, Mom, Junior, and Hutch.

Until we meet again GB, Linford R. Spence (brother)

“G” I will always remember the great days when I used to take you on the back of my bicycle to and from Frome Senior School. We got on the road and went straight home, because our uncles took the same road home and you know what that meant (wink wink).

Another fond memory is our wonderful and playful days with family and friends at Bluefields Beach.

Your being ill became very difficult at times for me. Dealing with your illness often brought tears to my eyes, especially when I was away from you.

Sister “G” Rest in Peace, Caple Spence (brother)

Confidant

Joan, my big sister (Miss G), one of the strongest ladies in the family; my friend, protector, and confidant who was always willing to help. Losing her inflicts a deep, deep pain. I will never forget her along with my other siblings who she has joined. I’ll surely miss her cooking and especially her sweet potato pudding.

If I had only known the last time would be the last time, I would have stayed a little longer and held on a little tighter. Oh, what I’d give for one more day with her.

Sleep on my sweet, sweet sister. Take your rest.

I love you but Jah loves you best. Love, love, love! Rod Spence (brother)

Good Friends Along The Way

We met G and Ronnie in Harbor View, Jamaica, where we were neighbors and quickly became good friends. One of our fondest memories is of G and Ronnie coming over to our home. Ronnie would ask for us to play some music and shortly after the music started, Ronnie would be fast asleep and of course G would be yelling “Ronnie, Ronnie wake up.” What we found out is that he was running away from his chores.

After both families left Jamaica, we always maintained our friendship and would visit one another as often as possible. G was such a strong woman and never complained, she would just say “I am here and thanking God to keep me and give me strength.” We will miss you and your laughter. Rest in peace my dear sweet G. We are sorry we are not able to attend your Thanksgiving Service but we are there with all of you in spirit.

Loren & Veronica Lue

Love

Grandma’s Gems

The memories she left us all with will never be forgotten. The visits to Avon Park so I could build a relationship with my great grandparents; or when I was going back home to Orlando, and she would do the $20 parting gift - aka the quick hand off when no one was looking. (lol) Especially the fact that her house was the spot the grandkids were able to get together and create memories. And how could I forget that on the weekends we would wake up to her jamming out to her favorite tunes. I will never forget our sports talks - aka her Miami Heat. Most importantly, grandma taught me that it’s family over everything.

You might be gone but you are forever in my heart.

I love you Grandma G. Ashlee Taylor (granddaughter)

I always appreciated and loved how grandma would make me feel, no matter what was going on. Grandma had a way of making me feel extra important and loved with her patience, understanding, and reasoning. I was truly blessed to have her in my life.

Grandma, you will forever be loved. Duval Walker (grandson) Grandma, there are too many memories for me to pick a favorite. From you yelling “Ronnie” after Grandpa had given us ice cream sandwiches or candy and told us not to tell... to Christmas dinner when I knew for sure strawberry delight was on the menu (and you made two so I could get a corner piece).

I recognize you as a woman of strength, virtue, honor, humility, and beauty. Your smile, hugs, and words of encouragement will be missed greatly. I know you were greeted with open arms from everyone that has passed before.

Until we see each other again - Danielle Walker-Eccles (granddaughter)

When I was younger, I used to like watching Grandma count partner money. Of course, I had no idea what that was at the time. She would separate the notes by denomination, bend a stack of them in half and unfold them one at a time, meticulously counting each stack like clockwork before adding it to her safe. This was done after each visit from friends and family who I saw come by for cute visits, to slip her or Grandpa envelopes of cash. Sometimes they would stop to discuss matters of importance. (I think some of them are in this crowd here today.)

Puzzled, I wondered about these encounters. So, one day I asked her why she always getting these monies and she explained the system of partner to me. She was the banker and routinely everyone got their draw. I was proud to know that my grandma was someone people could trust and it impressed me to see the way she handled that role with authority.

Love - Neil Sinclair (grandson)

One of my favorite memories is spending time with grandma watching her beloved Miami Heat. We would watch the games together and many times I spent more time watching her quarrel or yell at the TV when the players didn’t play up to her standards. It was so much fun watching her watch the match as she would almost jump out of the bed & at times, I thought she would get up and walk. Grandma was animated and it was as if she was on the court with them. She was their coach.

Everything she did was with passion, love, and attention. When she loved, she loved hard and you knew it, felt it, and longed for it. Her love could cure you from any issue you may think you have. I will miss hugging and kissing you; however, I will carry you in my heart always!

Dane Sinclair (grandson)

Sister! Sister!

Our sweet Sister G, Joan, ‘Gitucks’

Gone from this earth, away you flew.

Teary eyes and broken hearts left behind.

The memories of you will forever live in our hearts.

You fought every health battle you were faced with. This time around the shocking phone call, the one you don’t want to get. It blew my mind. The moment of disbelief, no way, this can’t be real, are you telling me my sister is going to die?

Then again, the reality of the news blew my mind. We are missing you dearly G, we are holding you close, so close in our hearts.

Ethnie Spence-Newman (Em), Beryl Spence-Campbell, Sandra (Pet) and Joyce, share the same sentiment.

Until we meet in the clouds, you will be our Angel.

Acknowledgments

Professional Services

Forest Lawn Funeral Home 2401 Davie Road Davie, FL 33317 954-792-9360

Pall Bearers

Howard Taylor (son) Glen Taylor (son)

Turhan Sinclair (son-in-law) Neil Sinclair (grandson) Dane Sinclair (grandson) Duval Walker (grandson)

Gracious Grafx Studios

Graphic Design & Layout Shawn Ferguson www.GraciousGrafx.com 954-515-9016

Concept Design & Editing

Annette Taylor-Spence Love CareFronting 954-439-5615

Printing

Pentecostal Tabernacle International, Inc. www.PenTab.org 305-651-9696

Thank You

The family extends appreciation for the many and varied outpourings of support that have been extended. You have undergirded us and by so doing imparted strength during a difficult time. We would also like to thank everyone who has been kind to, assisted, and loved Miss G during her life as she displayed strength through health challenges. Your kindness will not be forgotten.

Please join us at the repast, for a time of fellowship, as we refresh and reflect.

The Taylor and Spence families

Repast

St Benedict’s Church Hall 7801 NW 5th Street Plantation, FL 33324

Approximately 3:00 pm – 6:00pm; immediately after the burial