Judith “Judy” Taylor, a gentle, friendly, and creative soul, passed away peacefully on November 17, 2023, at her home in Bloomington. Judy was born on May 10, 1941 in Owensburg, Indiana to the late Robert “Strawberry” and Anna Louise (Jackson) McCloud.
Judy attended Oolitic High School. While working at Starlight Drive In, Judy met the love of her life, Phillip O. Taylor. Together, they shared over 43 years of countless memories including attending IU basketball games and car shows as members of the Cruisin Classic Car Club. Phil preceded her in death in 2001.
Judy was known for her unwavering dedication to her family. She served as a caregiver for various family members throughout her life. Most notably for her husband Phil throughout the last 10 years of his life. Even after Phil’s passing, Judy continued to exemplify selflessness in all aspects of her life.
Known by her loved ones as “Juby,” Judy was an avid bingo player, often participating multiple times a week. Bingo was a place where she made countless memories and friends who were like family. She was also an avid thrift shopper, always on the hunt for the next unique find. She had a particular fondness for butterflies, a creature she believed embodied beauty and transformation.
One of Judy’s most endearing hobbies was her collection of cookie jars. Each one held a special memory and told a story of a different time and place. Her collection was a testament to her creative spirit and her ability to find joy in the simplest of things.
Green was Judy’s favorite color, a fact that was evident in her home decor, her wardrobe, and even her garden. She found the color calming and felt it represented life, renewal, and energy. Her love for the color green was just one of the many ways Judy expressed her unique personality and creativity.
In her later years, Judy’s gentle nature and friendly demeanor never wavered. She was always ready with a warm smile or a kind word, making her a cherished member of her community. Her creativity shone through in everything she did, from her eclectic cookie jar collection to her vibrant green wardrobe.
Judy Taylor was a woman of strength, compassion, and unending love for her family and friends. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit will continue to live on in the memories they share. She will be dearly missed, but her life serves as a beautiful reminder of the power of kindness, the importance of family, and the joy that can be found in every day.
Judy is preceded in death by her parents, her husband Phil, a granddaughter, Haley Horton, siblings, Sandy Skinner, Betsy Harris, Donnie McCloud, Demon McCloud and Ronnie McCloud.
Judy is survived by her four children, Patty Abel and her husband Rick of Shoals, Indiana, Karen Horton and her husband Rick of Bloomington, Brian Taylor and his wife Shawna of Bloomington, and Brad Taylor and his husband Anthony Martin-Taylor of Tolleson, Arizona, five grandchildren, Jason Workman, Brandy Lazell (John), Megan Kast (Evan), Heidi Horton, and Lexi Gass (Mike), three great grandchildren, one brother, Robert “Junior” McCould (Linda), a sister in law, Judy Stewart-Myers (John), various nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews, as well as many special bingo friends.
And last but not least, always remember to check the battery.
Cremation will take place. A graveside service, officiated by Adam McCloud, will be held at a date to be determined.