Mary Lillian "Lil" Taylor

Mary Lillian “Lil” Taylor

November 16, 1937 – June 8, 2026

Mary Lillian “Lil” Taylor, age 88 of Ward, Arkansas, went peacefully to be with her Lord and Savior on June 8, 2026. A woman of profound Christian faith, Lil’s life was a beautiful testament to her devotion to God, her family, and her community.

Early Life and Education

Lil was born on November 16, 1937, to the late Otha and Iris (Lockard) Jones. She grew up with a foundation of hard work and faith, graduating from Cabot High School with the Class of 1955. Eager to further her education, she attended Ouachita Baptist University, graduating in 1959.

A Partnership of Love, Faith, and Adventure

Lil was united in marriage to the love of her life, Jerry W. Taylor. Together, they built a life centered on shared passions and deep mutual devotion. For years, they owned and operated the Cabot Carpet Center in the heart of downtown Cabot. For Lil and Jerry, their small business was far more than just a livelihood—it was an extension of their ministry. They viewed the store as a gateway to connect with their neighbors, support their community, and intentionally share the Word of God with everyone who walked through the door.

Outside of work, Lil and Jerry shared a vibrant love for adventure and God's creation. They loved riding motorcycles and four-wheelers, watching car races, camping, and traveling across America to take in the beautiful sights. Many of these treasured memories were made alongside their beloved "Richland Creek" family—a close-knit group of like-minded friends who shared their love for fellowship and the great outdoors.

A Heart for Ministry and Community

At the deepest part of Lil’s heart, everything centered around her relationship with Jesus Christ. She didn't just speak her beliefs; she actively lived them. As a faithful member of Cocklebur Baptist Church, she dedicated her time to teaching Sunday School and leading women's mission groups. Together with Jerry, Lil poured her heart into protecting the vulnerable by helping to found what is now the Options Pregnancy Center in Cabot, leaving a lasting legacy of life and hope in Lonoke County.

Though Lil and Jerry did not have children of their own, Lil’s maternal heart was vast. She dedicated her life to caring for, supporting, and—most importantly—unceasingly praying for children in need. She lived by faith as a treasured "second-mom," a beloved aunt, a wise advisor, a faithful companion, and a dedicated friend to countless individuals.

Family Members

Lil was reunited in Heaven with her parents, Otha and Iris Jones; her beloved husband, Jerry W. Taylor; her parents-in-law, William Taylor (Noreen) and Vernell Cady; her brother, J.L. Jones; her brother-in-law, Jerry Hill; and her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Joyce and Tom Starks.

Her legacy of love lives on through her surviving family: her sister, Ina Sue Hill; her sisters-in-law, Peggy Jones and Ria Taylor; and her brother-in-law, DeWayne Taylor. She is also survived by a host of nieces and nephews who she loved like her own: LeAnn Stewart (David), Janet Lowry (Bob), Ashley Taylor, James (Jay) Jimerson, Derek Ballard (Jessica), Brady Ballard (Nikki), Ryan Taylor, and Jeremiah Taylor (Kelly), as well as many extended family members, church family, and dear friends.

Service Details

Family and friends are invited to gather for a time of visitation on Friday, June 19, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Smith Westbrook Funeral Home in Beebe.

A Celebration of Life Worship Service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Cocklebur Baptist Church in Ward.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, and to honor Lil’s lifelong passion for ministry and helping others, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the following organizations that were near and dear to her heart:

• Lonoke County Safe Haven (Cabot, AR)

• Options Pregnancy Center (Cabot, AR)

• Cocklebur Baptist Church (Ward, AR)

• Samaritan’s Purse

• Caroline Baptist Association Missions (AR)