Evelyn Sandra "Sandy" Kelley Taylor

Evelyn Sandra “Sandy” (Kelley) Taylor “Nana”, 76, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026. Born August 9, 1949, in Birmingham, Alabama, Evelyn lived a life defined by devotion to family, faith, and quiet, creative joy. Sandy began her working life as a key punch operator, later joining the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where she served in the Registrar’s Office. She concluded her career caring for children at Nazarene Daycare, where her gentle patience and warm smile left a lasting impression on families and coworkers. A faithful member of her church for nearly her entire life, Evelyn found strength and comfort in worship and fellowship. Those who knew her best, knew of her devotion to her Savior. At home, she was happiest surrounded by family, a book in hand, a brush in her other hand, or arranging a room until it felt perfect. Her passions—reading, decorating, and painting—were expressions of a life that cherished beauty, story, and the small acts of care that make a house a home. She leaves behind countless memories woven through holiday gatherings, bedtime stories, painted keepsakes, and the steady support she offered through every season. Sandy is survived by her husband, Don Taylor; children Tonja Moore (Wade), Jason Taylor (Stephanie), and Brian Taylor (Stacey); grandchildren Devin Moore (Caroline), Destiny Taylor, Taylor Cook (Connor), Gavin Taylor (Kenzie), Autumn, Zoie, Grant, Evie, and Ryleigh Taylor; and great-grandchildren Lottie, Eden, Shephard, and Winnie Moore, and Maggie Taylor. Also survived by her aunt, Betty Best. She was preceded in death by her father, John Harrison Kelley; her mother, Eleanor Louise Kelley (Robertson); and her sister, Norma Elizabeth Scrivner. The family would also like to give special recognition and Love to her cousin and best friend, Sherry Baggett (Richard), who Sandy is also survived by. Sandy’s family remembers her as a gentle, creative matriarch whose laugh and kindness lifted everyone around her. Her legacy lives on in the warmth of family traditions she nurtured and in every painting, book, and lovingly arranged room that bore her touch. Services to honor Sandy’s life have been entrusted to Gardendale Heritage Funeral Home. Visitation will be held at Gardendale Heritage on Tuesday, April 28, 2026 from 5-7pm. The funeral service will be Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at Mt. Olive Alliance Church beginning at 10am. Evelyn will be laid to rest in a private ceremony at Alabama National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Anchor Community Respite Ministry.

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Evelyn Sandra "Sandy" Kelley Taylor

August 9, 1949 - April 25, 2026