Rita Marie Theresa Taylor

She was born on August 15, 1937 in Escanaba, daughter to Adolph and Sabilla (Lafaut) Lippens. She devoted her life to caring for others. A proud mother of four, she filled her home with warmth, laughter, and the comforting aroma of her home-cooked meals. Her passion for making mashed potatoes and her pasties, which she lovingly made for family, friends, and anyone in need of a little comfort.

Her kindness extended beyond her kitchen. Rita had a special place in her heart for nature and delighted in feeding the wild animals that frequented her yard, especially the hummingbirds which she loved. Her gentle presence and giving sprit were felt not just at home, but throughout her community. She was a dedicated volunteer at her church, always the first to offer a helping hand or a warm meal to someone in need.

Each year, she looked forward to Kids Fishing Day, where she shared her love for the outdoors with the next generation, always with a smile and a bucket of bait. But her greatest joy in life came from her family. She was the heart and soul of every gathering, the one who made holidays special and everyday moments magical. To her grandchildren and great -grandchildren, she wasn’t just grandma – she was their biggest cheerleader, most trusted confidante, and greatest source of unconditional love.

Rita enjoyed gardening, bird watching, and spending time outdoors, especially at their cabin in LaBranche. She also loved to crochet.

She is survived by her loving husband of 67 years, Russell “Tork” Taylor of Gladstone; four children, Julie Wolff, David (Lisa) Taylor, Joan (Robert) Lancaster, Robert (Bobbi Jo) Taylor; grandchildren, Tyler Pearson, Michael Pearson, Robin Fellion, Eric Taylor, Matthew Lancaster, Kyle Taylor, Gabrielle Gallert, and Mason Taylor; six great grandchildren; siblings, Mary Genesis, Germain Taylor, Albert Lippens, John Lippens, Adolph Lippens, Jr., Joe Lippens, Barbara Sheedlo, and Bernice Caron; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by son in law, Jerry Wolff; daughter in law, Debbie Taylor; and five siblings, Benny Lippens, Phil Lippens, Rene Lippens, Irene Barron, and Alice Solis.

Visitation will be on Friday, May 9th from 2 – 4 p.m. at the Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba. The funeral service will follow at 4 p.m. with Rev. Rick Courier officiating. (As a result of the current construction, best access to the funeral home would be using South 14th street to 2nd avenue.)

Burial will take place in Sacred Heart Cemetery in Schaffer.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to U.P. Health System Home Care and Hospice. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.