Geraldine Taylor

Geraldine Taylor, a cherished matriarch, and a beacon of love and faith, has been called to her eternal rest on the 14th of November, 2025, in Mishawaka, Indiana. Born on the 3rd of May, 1932, in Minden, Louisiana, Geraldine's life was a testament to the power of grace and the strength of family bonds. Her journey on earth began as the beloved daughter of Willie Hawkins Sr. and Lula Bell (Terrell) Hawkins, both of whom preceded her in death.
Geraldine's heart found its match in Rev. Dr. Dorsey Thomas Taylor, with whom she united in holy matrimony on the 3rd of March, 1958, in Michigan City, Indiana. Together, they built a legacy of love, a family that would be her pride and joy. Though Dorsey passed away in April 2000, their love endured in the lives of their children: Barbara Butler, Brenda Martin, Pastor Dennis (Renea) Taylor Sr., Harry (Michelle) Taylor, Larry Taylor, Pastor Rickardo (Marcia) Taylor Sr., Pastor Timothy (Karen) Taylor, and daughter-in-law Rhonda Taylor. Geraldine's nurturing spirit extended to her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and three Godchildren, each of whom she cherished deeply.
A woman of God and a pillar in her community, Geraldine served as the First Lady of Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, Mount Zion Baptist Church, Cathedral of Faith Baptist Church, Friendship Baptist Church, and Church Upon the Rock Baptist. Her devotion was further exemplified in her role within the nurse ministry at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, where she ministered to the physical and spiritual needs of countless individuals.
Professionally, Geraldine's talents shone brightly as she worked for many years in the South Bend Community School Corporation's kitchen. Her hands, ever skilled and ready to serve, also taught and mentored young ladies in the art of sewing at Washington High School, passing on a legacy of craftsmanship and self-reliance.
Geraldine's faith was the cornerstone of her existence, guiding her through life's ebbs and flows. She was an exceptional seamstress, weaving threads of wisdom into the fabric of our lives. Her love for coupons, shopping, gardening, cooking, and hats were facets of her joyful spirit. Yet, above all, Geraldine's love for her family and the Lord stood paramount.
Her sons, Kenneth Chavers and Donald Taylor along with her siblings, Pearl May, Christine, Magdeline, Ivory Hawkins Sr., Hayward, Willie Hawkins Jr, Alvin, Robert Lee, Jerry, and Johnny Hawkins, and sons-in-law, Dwight Butler and Kenneth Martin, have all preceded her in death. Yet, we take solace in knowing that she is now reunited with them in the presence of our Creator.
Geraldine Taylor's life was a living sermon, her actions a series of parables teaching us the virtues of compassion, integrity, and unwavering faith. To have known her was to have witnessed the Gospel in motion. She knew no stranger, for her heart recognized the face of God in everyone she met.
Geraldine will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 22, 2025 at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, 1620 S. St. Joseph St, South Bend, IN. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00–7:00 p.m. on Friday, November 21 at the church and again on Saturday, November 22, one hour prior to the services. Geraldine will be laid to rest in a private burial at Greenwood Cemetery in Michigan City, IN. Palmer Funeral Home--Welsheimer Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements.
Memorial contributions may be made in Mrs. Taylor's honor to Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, 1620 S. St. Joseph St, South Bend, IN 46613.
Online condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.palmerfuneralhomes.com.
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