Lois Mary Taylor

Lois Mary Taylor, aged 88, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at her home in Spring Valley, NY. Born in Danbury, Connecticut, to Mary and Percy Owen, Lois was one of five daughters, alongside her sisters Alice, Tony, Marylou, and Gloria. Her family eventually settled in Glens Falls, NY, where Lois developed a strong work ethic. Lois' early career began with the Western Union,

where her determination and independence led her to buy herself a striking white Thunderbird T-Bird, which she proudly drove.

Behind the wheel of this car, she met her future husband Lanny Taylor. The couple married just two months after their meeting and shared a deep connection through their intellectual conversations on social justice, politics, and history. Together, they had four children: Laurie, Mary, Bridget, and John, and raised their family in Spring Valley, NY. Lois and Lanny eventually parted ways but remained committed to their deep love for their children.

Despite her early interest in teaching, Lois pursued a nursing degree from Rockland Community College to support her family. She went on to work as a detox nurse at Westchester Medical Center. Later, she fulfilled her teaching ambitions by earning a bachelor’s degree in education from Mercy College, continuing to impact lives through her work with the AmeriCorps program, teaching English to immigrant

children. Lois became a beloved adopted grandmother to the families she supported, and her dedication to lifelong learning and service was an inspiration to many.

While Lois loved reading, history, cooking, and politics, her greatest joy in life was her son John, who was born with Down syndrome. When doctors advised her to place John in an institution in 1966, Lois resolutely refused, determined to give her son the life he deserved. She became a fierce advocate for his inclusion in all aspects of life, fighting tirelessly for his right to be educated in the public school system. Lois and John became an inspiration to many families navigating life with children with disabilities, embodying strength and hope.

Lois took immense pride in raising four children, paying off her home through sheer hard work, and living a life filled with purpose. She is survived by her daughters Laurie Williams (husband Merce), Mary Lauro (husband Paul), Bridget Taylor, her beloved son John Taylor, and her sister Gloria Monroe. Lois's legacy of love, resilience, and advocacy will live on through her family and the countless lives she touched..

Instead of flowers please consider donating in her name to one of these organizations: The Special Olympics, Alpine Learning Group Paramus NJ, or the ACLU.