Odelia Barber Taylor

Odelia Barber Taylor, 93, went home today to rest in the arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Odelia was born December 21, 1926 in Wentworth, NC, Rockingham County to Russell and Ellen Barber.

Odelia graduated at the top of her class at Rockingham High School. She then attended Pfeiffer Junior College and finished her degree in Home Economics at Appalachian State University. Upon her graduation, Odelia began her professional career as the Home Demonstration Agent for Wake County. In 1953 she married Ripley Taylor. The couple enjoyed 52 years together before his passing. Together, Ripley and Odelia owned and operated restaurants for 40 years along Hillsborough and West Morgan Streets, including “The Hamburger Hut.” They were the beloved “Mr. and Mrs. T.” to crowds of NC State students and seniors from the retirement community nearby.

Odelia was preceded in death by her husband, Ripley, as well as her parents, Russell and Ellen Barber and her oldest daughter and best friend, Sharon Dean.

She is survived by her three children and their spouses: Russell Taylor (Christy) of Boone, NC, Delia Brown (Greg) of Mechanicsville, VA, and Greg Taylor (Barbara) of Raleigh NC, along with Sharon’s husband, Larry Dean of Raleigh. She is also survived by her sister, Shelby Honeycutt, of Danville, VA and her brother Talmage (Tam) Barber of Eden, NC.

Odelia was an adoring “Nana” to her precious grandchildren: Courtney, Carey, Graham, Grayson, Windham, Hannah, Emma, and Summer Grace. She was also a great-grandmother to Tanner.

Odelia lived a life of love and dedication to those around her. She was always aware of the needs of others. During her years working in the family restaurant, she knew her customers by name, remembering their favorite foods and preferences without a reminder. After beginning her family, she became a loving, selfless mother. She was actively involved in countless activities on her children’s behalf. As they grew into adulthood, they always knew they were deeply loved and supported by their mother, never doubting her unfailing encouragement. Family gatherings in Odelia’s home over the years included an abundance of love, delicious food, and joy. As a mother, Odelia provided a solid foundation for her children and grandchildren, giving them direction and security in a changing world. In her latter years she persevered through many health challenges, always keeping a positive attitude. She will be deeply missed by friends, family, and all who knew her.

The family would like to thank the members and staff of Trinity Baptist Church of Raleigh for their continued support and prayers on Odelia’s behalf. Additionally, they would like to thank the caregivers of recent years as well as those from Affordable Family Care Services. The kindness and love they bestowed upon Odelia was a true blessing.

A funeral service to celebrate Odelia's life will be held Thursday, October 15th at 1:00 pm at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home ( Wynne Chapel ), 300 Saint Mary's St., Raleigh, NC 27605. Burial will follow at Raleigh Memorial Park, 7501 Glenwood Ave. Raleigh, NC 27612.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Trinity Baptist Church (General Fund), 4815 Six Forks Rd., Raleigh, NC 27609.