Mother Ella Mae McCrary Taylor, 91, peacefully transitioned into glory on July 25, 2026, at Lutheran Life Villages, where she had resided for the past four and a half years. Known for her unwavering faith and positive outlook, Ella Mae's response to how she was doing was always, “I’m Blessed,” ensuring everyone around her knew it!

Ella Mae was born on January 7, 1935, in Columbus, Mississippi, as the first of thirteen siblings to her parents, Syretha Johnson McCrary and Payton McCrary, Sr. Her upbringing in a large family established her sense of community and devotion, which she carried throughout her life.

A devoted church mother, Ella Mae was an integral part of the Tree of Life Missionary Baptist Church, led by her long-time friends Pastor Mozell (Olivia) Davis, Sr. She was an honorary church member, director of the youth children choir, and served as the Nurses Aid President for the Nurses Guild. Despite health challenges that later prevented her from attending in person, her spirit remained with her church community, and her contributions were numerous and heartfelt. Her dedication extended to the Touch of Class Christian Club, where she served as secretary/treasurer and kitchen chairperson.

Having worked at Fort Wayne State Hospital, Ella Mae later retired from Saint Anne’s Nursing Home. She extended her nurturing spirit beyond her family, becoming a Foster Parent and participating in the Foster Grandparent Program.

Mother Taylor enjoyed hosting lively card parties with friends and cherished spending time with her brother Thomas of the Mississippi Nightingales, often coordinating his appearance to visit Tree of Life’s annual church programs.

Ella was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, McKinley Taylor; son, Rev. Dale Lyons; daughter, Naomi Lyons; grand-daughter, Ollie Lyons; brothers, Gene McCrary, Thomas McCrary, Alonzo McCrary, Davis McCrary, Elton McCrary and James Berry; sisters, Lillie Durant, Vivian McCrary, Jessie Ruth Mosely and Dorothy Schencek.

She leaves to cherish her legacy and memories; her loving and devoted daughter, Patricia Reeves; sons, David Michael Lyons and Carl Lyons all of Fort Wayne, Indiana; sisters, Bennie Jean Bonner and Elizabeth Miller; brothers Terry Dumas and Payton McCrary, Jr. of Columbus, Mississippi; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, and a host of extended family and friends.

Mother Ella Mae McCrary Taylor's life was a testament to faith, love, and community, and her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her. Her warmth, kindness, and unwavering faith along with her signature smile will be forever treasured to all who were blessed to know her.