Shirley Ann Taylor

Shirley Black Taylor was born in Roanoke, Virginia to Adele and Grover Poindexter. An energetic young woman, Shirley attended Lucy Addison High School where she graduated in 1959. Shirley was blessed with one son, Gus, whom she loved and cherished. As years passed, Shirley and Gus relocated to New York to reside with her close friend Clarice Miller, who was more like a sister. Shirley met and married Robert Taylor and shortly after in the mid 1980’s, they made their way to Florida to enjoy the warm climate, while becoming socially active in the community. Robert passed away in the early 1990’s. Shirley became an active participant with the Kissimmee Rotary Club, eventually becoming its first African-American female President. She maintained membership in Branch 5121 of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), serving once as a Secretary. She also became a faithful member of the St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church. Her heart was very dedicated to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Committee since its inception in 1988. The name later became the Osceola Visionaries, Inc., where she became a chartered member. Shirley served on committees wherever and whenever needed. She was elected Secretary and Treasurer, serving until the onset of health conditions. Shirley was passionate about her duties and played an instrumental part in awarding scholarships to many promising high school graduates. Shirley worked as Office Manager at Orange/Osceola Utility Company (OUC) in 1982, where she was known for her kind and compassionate nature. She also worked for the Osceola Council on Aging, as Site Manager in intergenerational services at the Chambers Park Community Center, sponsored by the City of Kissimmee and the Osceola Council on Aging. In addition, she served as Meals on Wheels Coordinator, and more recently, Site Coordinator for the St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church Senior Outreach Program, working with many community seniors. Affectionately known as “Ms. Shirley” and as a devoted Christian, cherished friend, helping hand, and an arm of support for countless others. Preceded in death by her Husband, Robert Taylor; Father, Grover Poindexter; Mother, Adele Poindexter; Brothers: Charles, Ronnie, and Robert Poindexter. Left to mourn this wonderful lady who brought smiles and laughter to so many are her Son, Gus Poindexter (Karen) of Roanoke, VA; Sister, Frances Poindexter of Roanoke, VA; Brother, Grover Poindexter, Jr. of Roanoke, VA, Grandsons: Guyy Payne (Sindy) of Kissimmee, FL, Guss Payne and, Gerard Payne, both of Roanoke, VA; Step Granddaughter, Tiffany of Roanoke, VA; 9 Great-Grandchildren, and a plethora of nieces, nephews and friends.

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Shirley Ann Taylor

October 13, 1941 - December 26, 2022