Carol Taylor

Carol A. (O’Neal) Taylor, 75, of Crooksville, passed away on May 10, 2026, at Genesis Healthcare, leaving behind a life marked by devotion, warmth, and deep love for her family. She was born on January 23, 1951, in Crooksville, Ohio, and from the beginning she carried the strength, kindness, and steady spirit that would come to define her life. Carol lived her life with grace and determination, and she touched the hearts of many through her generosity, her humor, and the sincere care she showed to those around her. Carol was the beloved wife of Charles “Gene” Taylor, whom she married on December 14, 1968, and who preceded her in death. Together, they built a family that was the center of her world. She was a devoted mother to Tony (Misty) Taylor, Julie (Dick) Russell, Trina (Tom Bolyard) Taylor, and Jamie Wilson. She took great pride in her children and loved them with a steadfast, unconditional love that remained constant throughout her life. She was also a cherished grandmother to Lindsey (Will) Bolyard, Tosha (Mike) Leasy, Tommy Bolyard, Tayler (Shannon) Wilson, Hillary (Tyler) Miller, and Hannah Taylor. Her love extended into the next generation as well, and she treasured her great-grandchildren, Jozie, Oaklynn, and Hudson. Carol found immense joy in her family, and her home was a place where laughter, stories, and the comfort of being together were always present. She is survived by her sister Betty Manring, her sisters-in-law Debbie O’Neal and Aunda Patterson, and her brother-in-law Paul (Tammy) Watson as well as many nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Her family was large, close, and deeply connected, and Carol was a steady presence in the lives of those who loved her. Carol worked for Essex Wire and later at Ruff’s IGA until her health no longer allowed her to continue working. In every role she held, she was known for her strong work ethic and dependable nature. She also gave of herself in her community and family by leading her daughters’ Girl Scout troop, a role that reflected her patience, guidance, and commitment to helping young people grow and thrive. She was the kind of woman who led by example and who made a lasting difference in the lives of others through everyday acts of care and encouragement. Her ambition was to become the best mother and grandmother possible, and by all accounts, she achieved that goal beautifully. Carol was an amazing cook, and family and friends alike will remember her for the best deviled eggs and homemade noodles around. She expressed love through her cooking, her storytelling, and the many small kindnesses that made others feel welcome and valued. Carol enjoyed playing cards, gambling, storytelling, and watching home videos. These simple pleasures brought her joy and reflected her love of family, fun, and reminiscing about the moments that mattered most. She had a gift for storytelling, and her words could bring laughter, reflection, and connection to those around her. Watching home videos allowed her to relive treasured memories and share them with the people she loved. Carol was preceded in death by her granddaughter Hayley Ann Taylor, her great-grandchild Baby Miller, her son-in-law Greg Wilson, and her siblings Mary Tittle and her husband Melvin, Peg Thorp and her husband Floyd, Bill O’Neal, James O’Neal, and Johnny O’Neal and brother-in-law Dan Manring. Calling hours will be held Wednesday May 13, 2026, from 2pm- 4pm and 6pm to 8pm at Ross-Frash Funeral Home, 207 Burley Street, Crooksville, where funeral services will e held Thursday May 14, 2026, at 11:00am. Burial will conclude in St. Joseph Cemetery outside of Crooksville. www.ross-frashfuneralhomes.com
