Phyllis A. Pearson Taylor, 86, of Rochester, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025. She had been a resident of the Villas of South Park, in Chatham for six years.
Phyllis was born on November 28, 1938, in Indianola, IL, the daughter of Dean and Irene (Jackson) Pearson. She married Jack K. Taylor on July 12, 1959. He preceded her in death on July 7, 2022.
Phyllis worked as secretary for the Rochester Christian Church for 10 years but her most cherished role (especially by her family) was being the best wife, mother, and grandmother. Her daughter affectionately referred to her as "Ms. Better Homes and Gardens" because she took care of everything to make her home a beautiful and welcoming place both inside and out. She was an avid reader, crossword puzzle solver, excellent cook, and gardener. She also loved playing volleyball, tennis, and Yahtzee.
Phyllis was preceded in death by her parents; daughter, Erin Taylor; brother, Howard Pearson (wife, Connie, deceased), and sister, Esther Hires.
She is survived by daughter, Natalie Taylor; son, Stuart (Pam) Taylor; 5 grandchildren, Ryan, Ashley (Jonathan Lescisin), Alex (Steph Simon), Hailey, and Gage Taylor; 3 step grandchildren, Mel (Nate) Shaughnessy and Mitch and Jake Populorum; 3 great grandchildren, Riverly, Memphis & Axel Taylor; 2 step great grandsons, Liam and Luke Shaughnessy.
Per Phyllis's wishes, cremation will be accorded by Park Funeral Homes, and a service will be held at a later date. Memorial may be made to the Rochester Friends of the Library, 1 Community Drive, Rochester, IL. 62563 in Phyllis's name. Wilson Park Funeral Home, 200 E. Main St. in Rochester is in charge of arrangements.
Learn more about Phyllis on the Pence Family History site:
