Carol "Jean" Taylor

Carol “Jean” Taylor, 86, of Amarillo, TX passed away January 22, 2026.

Viewing will be Thursday, January 29, 2026 from 8 AM to 5 PM at Boxwell Brothers. Funeral service will be 2 PM, Friday, January 30, 2026 at Boxwell Brothers Ivy Chapel. Interment will follow in Memorial Park Cemetery. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors.

Carol “Jean” Burkett Taylor was born on January 27, 1939, in Sweetwater, Texas, to Elzo and Mildred Burkett. She met the love of her life, Gary Taylor, and the two eloped on November 13, 1956, in Clayton, New Mexico. They shared 43 devoted years of marriage until Gary’s passing on February 1, 2000, and together raised two children, Kent and Kim.

Jean lived a full and adventurous life. She worked in many roles, including with the City of Amarillo, the Stockyards, a local credit union, and briefly as a flight attendant—famously winning over interviewers with her quick wit and unforgettable sense of humor. Alongside Gary, she co-owned several local businesses, including Gary Taylor Construction and the SW Speedway, where she spent 26 years at the racetrack with family, cheering Gary on as he raced.

She loved travel and adventure, from exploring the world with her grandchildren to attending legendary boxing matches in Las Vegas. Summers at the lake house, horseback riding, games with her children, and time spent crafting, sewing, crocheting, and creating ceramics filled her days. Known for her impeccable style, Jean loved jewelry and was always the best dressed in the room.

Above all, Jean treasured her roles as wife, mother, and nanna. A devoted homemaker, she was active in her church, loved the Lord deeply, and lived her life with faith, laughter, and love.

She is preceded in death by her husband Gary Taylor in 2000; brother, James Burkett; and sister, Joy Miller.

Jean is survived by son, Kent Taylor and wife Leann; daughter, Kim Spangler; sister, Judy MaGouirk and husband Allan; grandchildren, Matt, Cinnamon, Lacie, Shaleene, Brittany, Tandi, and Taci; 13 great-grandchildren and 2 on the way; and 1 great-great-grandchild on the way.