Bette "Marlene" Taylor
May 29, 1938 – December 25, 2024
Bette "Marlene" Taylor of Belmont passed away peacefully at London Health Sciences Centre – Victoria Hospital on Christmas Day, December 25, 2024, in her 87th year. Beloved wife of the late Ralph Taylor (2012). Loving mother of James Taylor (Darlene) of Belmont and John Taylor (Patricia) of North Vancouver, British Columbia. Proud grandmother of Trianna Landon (Devin), Aonghas Taylor, Quinlan Taylor, and great-grandmother of Thatcher and Vada Landon.
Marlene is survived by her siblings Barbara Clark (Jim), Robert Buchanan (Carolyn), Dennis Buchanan, and Daniel Buchanan (Sharon), as well as her sisters-in-law Jean Buchanan and Norma Potter. She was predeceased by her brother Jamie (2011) and special sister-in-law Debbie Buchanan (Dennis). Marlene will be fondly remembered by her nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Born in London, Ontario, on May 29, 1938, to the late James and Alice (Marr) Buchanan, Marlene dedicated her life to teaching and community service. A lifelong educator, she began her teaching career at 18 years old at Belmont Public School, South Dorchester Public School, and later Scott Street and Balaclava Public Schools in St. Thomas. Marlene also served as a South Dorchester Township councillor, dedicating her time to improving her community.
Marlene was an active and lifelong member of Belmont United Church and contributed countless hours to various community projects. She was a founding board member of Bel Parc, a senior apartment facility, and played a key role in the development of Belmont Community Park. Marlene enjoyed traveling, cottage life at the Pickerel River, and was an avid reader who passed her love of books to her students and grandchildren.
Visitation will be held at H. A. Kebbel Funeral Home, 119 Talbot St. E., Aylmer, on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will take place at Belmont United Church on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. Cremation and burial will follow at Dorchester Union Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations to Belmont Community Park, Belmont United Church (donate@belmontunited.ca), or the Alzheimer Society of Canada would be appreciated. Condolences may be shared at www.kebbelfuneralhome.com.
