Barbara Taylor Cailis

Barbara Ann (Taylor) Cailis, 84, passed away in her home in Southwest Ranches, Florida, on December 14, 2025. She was a loving mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and a loyal friend whose warmth, kindness, and quiet strength touched everyone who knew her.

Barbara was born in Miami, Florida, on July 25, 1941, to Woodrow Wilson Taylor and Ethel (Holder) Taylor. She graduated from Miami Jackson Senior High School in 1959 and spent her life building meaningful relationships and a home filled with love, care and compassion.

Barbara married George Emanuel Cailis on October 27, 1962, in Miami, Florida. Together they shared many years of family life and memories.

For sixteen years, Barbara taught Sunday school at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, where she made lifelong friendships. She worked throughout her life for a gas company, two airlines, and later as a real estate agent and secretary for Gill Realty Inc. from 1972-2010.

Barbara enjoyed reading, playing cards, traveling, and spending time with friends, but her greatest joy came from time spent with her family. She was thoughtful, dependable, and always there when someone needed her. Her presence brought comfort, and her love was steady and unconditional.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Woodrow and Ethel Taylor, and her brother, James Ivan Taylor.

Barbara is survived by her husband, George Cailis; her daughter, Crystal Smith (Robert); her son, Manny Cailis (Rose); her granddaughters, Kristyn Blackmar (Ross), Megan Thomas (Zachary), Caitlyn Smith, and Isabella Gauthier; and her great-grandson, Colin Blackmar.

A viewing will be held on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:30 a.m. at the Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, 12250 NW Second Avenue, North Miami, Florida.

A committal service will follow at 1:30 p.m. at Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens, 2401 Davie Road, Davie, Florida.

Barbara will be remembered for her loving heart, her gentle nature, and the way she made those around her feel supported and cared for. Her memory will continue to live on through her family and the many lives she has touched. She will be deeply missed and remain forever in our hearts.

Flowers are welcome and may be sent to the Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.