Betty Christine Jenkins Taylor

Elizabeth (Betty) Christine Taylor—also known as Mimi — 94 years old of Dallas, Texas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 16, 2023. She was born to James Madison Jenkins and Alma Loraine Todd Jenkins on February 25, 1929, and graduated from North Dallas High School.

Betty married Jefferson Hermann Taylor on February 23, 1952 — two days before her 23rd birthday. They were married for nearly 64 years.

She attended TWU and worked as a secretary. Soon, she and Jeff wanted to start a family. Unable to have children of their own, they adopted three children — Joseph Michael, Lori Ann, and John David. Their recommendation letter for adoption was written by Dr. W.A. Criswell, who called them “the most deserving couple for children he had ever met.” She took great pride in raising her children and caring for them.

At the beginning of their marriage, Betty and Jeff attended Ross Avenue Baptist Church and eventually joined First Baptist Church of Dallas. Betty and Jeff served in the ministry outreach of Good Shepherd for many years, picking up children and families on a bus so they could attend church. In her later years, Betty was very active in the Precept class.

Betty was a great conversationalist, befriended everyone, and let her faith inform how she spoke and lived. She was a devoted daughter, a great sister, a fun aunt, a loving wife, a wonderful mother, a doting grandmother and extra lucky to be a great-grandmother.

She is survived by her son, Joe Taylor of Dallas; daughter, Lori Clem-Byrnes and her husband, Collin Byrnes; son, John Taylor and his wife, Valerie Taylor; grandchildren, Lauren Collins, Holly Taylor, Wendy Taylor Pugh and husband David Pugh, and Katy Taylor; and great-grandchildren, Brooke Collins and Dustin Byrnes. She joins her parents, husband Jeff, brother Jim, and son-in-law Casey in heaven. Heaven has never been more real to us all. What she once knew by faith, she now knows by sight.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to P.L.A.N. (Planned Living Assistance Network). 13151 Emily Rd., Suite 240, Dallas, TX 75240. Please join us in the family lounge here at Sparkman-Crane immediately following the service.

On behalf of Betty and our family, we appreciate your continued prayers and the loving friendship extended over the years.