After having not only survived, but also thrived beyond what her childhood physicians thought possible, on March 24, 2022, at the age of 52, Bobbie Elizabeth Taylor, affectionately known by many as Bobbie-Liz or just Liz, passed away peacefully into arms of our Lord. Bobbie was born in Baton Rouge, LA, where, as a child, she enthusiastically served as the local poster child for Muscular Dystrophy. As she represented and supported the research efforts of the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), Bobbie appeared on televised fund-raising telethons, was featured in multiple newspaper articles and giddily met with many celebrities, politicians and sports stars. As long as she was able, Bobbie enjoyed fishing and gardening and the outdoors. Later, Bobbie expressed herself through a love of poetry, finding immense joy singing in choirs and by remaining active in church activities. Bobbie proudly attended Delgado Community College in New Orleans, LA. In Nola, Bobbie was able to take advantage of all the city had to offer, including once having had the honor of having her wheelchair hoisted atop a Mardi Gras float, by close friends and loved ones, so that she could ride in a parade –this, a small example of her joy and bravery. Although Bobbie faced many physical difficulties during her earthly journey, her inner Light shown through it all. During even her most difficult times, Bobbie was able to keep her faith and share her spiritual incites to others in need. She always had a curious, inquisitive gleam in her eyes, one mixed with a spark of sweet joy and spiced with just the right amount of sass and witticism. Bobbie’s direct nature and sense of humor never failed to bring smiles to the people around her or, at the very least, make them think a little. Bobbie loved listening to music, watching movies and keeping up with her friends and family on social media. Bobbie was blessed by many meaningful relationships. She held a special place in her heart for her cousin, Rusty Anderson, whom she loved dearly; she considered him to be more her brother than a cousin. Rusty’s companionship meant more to Bobbie than he knew. He was there with Bobbie, when she lived in New Orleans, and later helped her in her big move from Mansura to Monroe. It was in Monroe where Bobbie welcomed her beloved Roosevelt Collins into her life’s story. Together, Bobbie and Roosevelt shared their love of music, Bible study and helped one another to deepen their understandings of Christ’s Love and of love in general. Of all of her special relationships, however, Bobbie’s relationship with her mother Sharlene was one for the ages. For 52 years Bobbie had never to want nor wonder; her mamma was always there to support her independent nature, encourage her bravery, provide for Bobbie’s spiritual & physical safety and to exhibit the kind of unconditional love that all Children of God deserve to feel. Sharlene’s and Bobbie’s dedication to one another has been awe inspiring for all whom have been blessed to bear witness to their connection. Bobbie’s physical journey may have been a difficult one. But, with the love of her family and friends and her deep faith in God’s Plan, Bobbie was able to make the most of her short time on this Earth and to touch the hearts and souls of all those around her. Although Bobbie-Liz will be greatly missed today, her faith tells us all that we will one day see her again, when we too are called Home to be with our Lord God in Heaven. Bobbie is survived by her parents: Sharlene Gauthier Ford of Marksville, LA and Robert Whitlow Taylor (Sandy) of DeRidder, LA; Fraternal Aunts: Peggy Rozas (Walter) of Cottonport, LA, Jan Redmon (Ronnie) of Bunkie, LA, Iletta Schexnayder (Dale) of Meeker, Earlene Brewer of MS, Polly Anderson (Russell) of Mandeville, LA; Maternal Aunts and Uncles: Myra Jeansonne (Joel) of Moreauville, LA, Lisa Blair (Keith LaBorde) of Washington, LA, Marvin Gauthier (Rose) of Bunkie, LA, Wayne Gauthier (Susan) of Deville, LA, Willard “Jay” Gauthier Jr. (Freda) of Clinton, LA and Ricky Gauthier (Debra) of Cummins, GA; Step-Siblings: Miriam Bass, Melissa Conard & Matt Meyers, Pearl Carr, Michael Ford, Joseph Ford, Elizabeth Pecanty, Mary Billiot, Patrick Ford and Keith Ford; and numerous Cousins, Nieces, Nephews and friends. Bobbie was preceded in death by: her Beloved, Roosevelt Collins of Monroe, LA; her Step-Father, Edwin Royce Ford, Jr. of Marksville, LA; her Great-Grandparents, Grandparents, Uncles and other loved family members and friends. Bobbie’s Funeral Mass will take place at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Cottonport, LA on Saturday, April 2, 2022, at 11am with her Christian Burial to immediately follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery #1. Services will be conducted by Rabenhorst Funeral Home of Baton Rouge. Please visit www.dignitymemorial.com/funeral-homes/rabenhorst.com to view and upload photos, to share memories and to leave online condolences. In honor of Bobbie’s memory, donations may be made to the Muscular Dystrophy Association by visiting www.mda.org.
