Cathy Jean Taylor

In Loving Memory of Cathy Jean Taylor: A Tribute to a Vibrant Life

Cathy Jean Taylor, beloved wife, mother, friend, and community leader, passed away peacefully on May 17, 2024 at 70 years old. Born in Sherman, TX to World War II veteran Elmer Linson and her mother, Marie Linson, she was the first of six children and only daughter. Her departure is difficult for those whose lives she touched, but her faithful witness, love, creativity, and compassion will continue to inspire us all.

First and foremost, Cathy practiced the power of friendship and servant leadership in her community, wherever she was at the time. Her service spanned group homes for incarcerated women, children in under-served communities, individuals experiencing homelessness, elderly individuals, and more.

Cathy was a dedicated, multi-modal artist who aimed to create art in community with others. Whether working with fibers, watercolors, or acrylics, her pieces reflected her vibrant spirit and boundless imagination, and she shared with many people–particularly those who needed it most–the healing power of art. Her talent, passion, and patronage of the arts was a constant throughout her life.

As a lay leader at Memorial United Methodist Church in Charlotte, NC, Cathy served her community with her vast knowledge of scripture and commitment to inclusion. Her devotion to helping others extended beyond the church walls, as she founded Vibrant Minds, an organization dedicated to bringing joy and healing to those facing cognitive decline through the arts. Her servant leadership was also instrumental at Central Church of God, Victory Christian Center, and among many other faith communities. 

Professionally, Cathy’s 50-year career spanned industries, but she is most known for her roles as executive assistant and event planner in praise of her efficiency, professionalism, and ability to make things happen. Her contributions to top banking institutions such as Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and Jefferies–where she retired in 2020–were invaluable, and her impact was felt far and wide.

Cathy was married to her high school sweetheart and marine veteran Thomas Hugh Taylor, Jr. for 37 years who passed away March 28, 2021. She is survived by her son Chris, daughters Bridget and Lauren, son-in-law Kinard, grandsons Khristian, CJ, Kaden, and Remy. She also leaves behind her beloved companion, Biscuit, a Maltese rescue dog she adopted in 2015. Though she may no longer be with us in body, her spirit will live on in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to have known her.

A celebration of Cathy Jean Taylor's life will be held at Saint Ambrose Episcopal Church in Raleigh, NC on May 26 at 1:00 PM, where friends and family will gather to pay their respects and share fond memories of a remarkable woman who brought joy and inspiration to all who knew her.

Cathy Jean Taylor will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as her light continues to shine brightly in the lives of all who were touched by her presence.

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