Berta Ariminta Ellis Taylor, 94, of Richmond passed away on Friday, September 15, 2023, peacefully in her home after an extended illness.
Berta was born on August 29, 1929, to the late Charles E. Ellis Sr. and Carrie Morse Ellis in Goochland County, Virginia. Berta was baptized as a child at St. James Baptist Church-Blair Road under the spiritual leadership of the late Reverend James E. Johnson. She served on the usher board and sang in the choir for many years. She accepted the position of Deaconess and faithfully served until her health prohibited her from serving. She loved serving on many
committees at church including Missionary and Pastor's Aide. At a later time, she was named Deaconess Emeritus. Berta was a nurturing soul with a green thumb, a skilled seamstress, and a master chef in the kitchen. Forever engrossed in the pages of books, finding solace and joy within their words. She
was devoted to the well-being of the family, both near and far. A dedicated employee of the Massey family for over two decades, she poured her heart and soul into her work.
Berta leaves to cherish her memory two devoted children Douglas Leroy Taylor Sr. and Reverend Sandra Taylor-Smith (Robert); nine grandchildren Kevin D. Anderson (Angela), Renée Y. Price, Douglas L. Taylor Jr., Brian D. Taylor Sr. (Heather), Solomon E. Price III, Terrica Taylor,
Damon S. Price, Denise N. Dabney, and Kristin T. McCall (Michael); three bonus grandchildren Robert Smith III, DeWanda Crum, and Vikki Smith; twelve great-grandchildren Douglas L. Taylor III, Darrius Bennett, Brian Taylor II, Jaelen Taylor, Ravan Taylor, Brionne Taylor, Jaela Dabney, Jamare Dabney, Jameah Malloy, Aaron Mason, Amaya Taylor, Nathanial Taylor; seven bonus great-grandchildren Timeka Baker (Brian), DeVaughn Smith, Demetrius Haden (Jazmine), Michael Smith (Essence), Robert J. Smith, Chelsea Jones, and Ruquyyah Smith; eleven great-great grandchildren; one cousin Clara Ellis; one sister-in-law Mary F. Taylor; devoted nieces and nephews; loving caregiver Katie Cox, and other relatives and friends.
Berta was preceded in death by her husband, Herman Taylor Jr., and her sons, Herman III, Martin, and Robert.
The family would like to give thanks to Hospice of Virginia. May her legacy inspire us all to embrace love, creativity, and dedication in all we do.
The interment will be private. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, September 23, 2023 at Affinity Funeral Service, 2720 Enterprise Pkwy,
Richmond, VA 23294. The interment will be private.