Emma J. Taylor

Emma J. Taylor of Columbia, South Carolina, Carolina, was born on March 5, 1934, to the late Melton and Nazzie Fritz.  She peacefully transitioned from earth to glory on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at her residence. She was united in marriage to the late Thomas L. Taylor.

Emma attended the public schools of Calhoun County, South Carolina. She dedicated her life to serving and caring for others for over 50 years She worked dedicated her life to serving and caring for others for over 50 years. She worked faithfully at the Presbyterian Church for many years and was also employed by the Brown and Hunt families, helping to raise their children and grandchildren until her health declined.

Emma was a loving and devoted mother to her children and to many others whom she cared for as her own. She cherished spending time with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. Her joy came from being surrounded by family-laughing, joking, and creating memories. She loved shopping, visiting her granddaughter's home on Sundays and during special occasions, and simply being in the company of her loved ones and friends.

A faithful member of Kingdom Reapers Church, Emma was known for her kind spirit and giving heart. She once served as the church cook on Sundays, preparing meals for the homeless. Her compassion and nurturing nature earned her the title, "Mother of the Church."

She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas L. Taylor, her parents, Melton and Nazzie Fritz; brothers, John Fritz and Henry Fritz; daughter, Delores H. Shephard; granddaughter, Andreak Montgomery; and grandson, Antonio R. Taylor.

Cherishing her beautiful memories are her beloved children: Wilhelmina Byrd, Deborah Moody, Elizabeth Brown, Selina (Russ) McKcKinney, Elizabeth (Hagood) Tighe, and Ramelle (Lee) Mashburn, all of Columbia, SC; two sons, Tommy (Adrian) Givens and Steven Sutton, both of Columbia, SC; ten grandchildren: Ronald Spigner, Kutuna Moody, Kamara (Sandra) Hodges, grandchildren: Ronald Spigner. Kutuna Moody, Kamara (Sandra) Hodges, Wanda Moody, Peter Brown, Christopher Brown, Jermae Kelly, Terrance Givens, Amanda (Travis) Lang, Jarvis (Petrina) Whetstone, and Tony Gadsden, all of Columbia, SC; twenty-five great-grandchildren; twenty-three great-great-grandchildren; one nephew; two nieces; and a host of loving family members and friends.

Emma will be remembered for her strength, her laughter, and her unconditional love for her family. Her legacy of kindness, service, and faith will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

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