Jo Ann Taylor

Jo Ann Taylor went to be with the Lord on November 25, 2019 after a short illness and was surrounded by her loving family. JoAnn was born in Huxford, Alabama on June 13, 1939. Her family eventually moved to Fort Walton Beach when she was a teenager in the 1950’s and she attended Choctawhatchee High School. She worked at the Palm Theater in Fort Walton where she met George B. Taylor who was stationed at Hurlburt Field. They were married for 45 years and traveled the world together. They had three children, Sonia Taylor Kirk, George Taylor of Mary Esther and Scott Taylor who preceded her in death. Jo Ann loved traveling and living in Hawaii, Japan, the Philippines and Bahrain. Her home reflected the beauty of many places and cultures. After George retired, they returned to their family home in Florida on Okaloosa Island where they enjoyed living on the sugar white beach. Her husband George preceded her in death in 2001 and she moved to the Air Force Village where she lived for many years. In recent years she moved to Oklahoma to be cared for by her daughter. She was a member of the Red Hatters and was crowned Miss Southern Belle in 2010 representing Hawthorn House in Shalimar. She was a previous member of the Gem and Mineral society and First Baptist Church of Fort Walton Beach. She loved animals and had beloved pets throughout her life. She especially loved chihuahuas, pugs and shih tzus who gave her much joy. She is survived by her children Sonia and Tim Kirk of Oklahoma City, George and Yolanda Taylor of Mary Esther, her grandchildren: Theresa Taylor, Pete Taylor, Taryn Taylor, Lindsey Couvillon, Patrick Kirk, Ryan Kirk and Brittan Kirk and her 5 great-grandchildren: Eli, Alyssa, Lucy, Millie and Rex. A Celebration of Life Reception in her honor will be December 17, 2019, 6-8 pm at the Hilton Garden Inn Ballroom 1297 Miracle Strip Parkway on Okaloosa Island, Fort Walton Beach, Florida. We will gather to laugh, cry and share memories of a wonderful life. To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Jo Ann Taylor please visit our Sympathy Store.