It is with deep sorrow and profound love that we announce the passing of Benita E. Taylor of St. Mary's, PA. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, who passed away on Wednesday, March 19th and the age of 84.
Born in the beautiful town of Basco, Batanes, Philippines, on April 3, 1940 to the late Simon and Felisa Espinoza Del Rosario. Benita carried with her the warmth and resilience of her homeland throughout her life.
She was married to the late, Lynn H. Taylor, for 43 wonderful years. Together, they created a family that was her greatest pride and joy. She is survived by her three loving daughters, Jennifer Sparico and her husband Mark of Virginia, Kristine Burkholder and her husband Rick of Kansas, and Melissa Lambert and her husband John of Virginia who will cherish her wisdom, strength and unconditional love. She was preceded in death by her son, Darrell H. Taylor in 2023. She was also a proud grandmother to Samuel and Ava Sparico, Quinn and Carly Burkholder and to her precious great-grandson, Jett Ward.
She had an insatiable passion for learning, earning not one but two Bachelor of Science degrees from California State-Fullerton and Clarion University and two Master's of Science degrees from Penn State University, a testament to her unwavering dedication to education. As a teacher for the St. Mary's Area School District, she not only imparted knowledge but also inspired generations of students to embrace curiosity and strive for excellence.
Benita leaves behind a legacy of inspiration. She taught us that knowledge is a lifelong pursuit, that the world is meant to be explored, and that the greatest journeys are those that open both the mind and the heart. Her courageousness and unwavering belief in the power of education will continue to guide those who follow in her footsteps, reminding us always to seek, to learn, and to embrace the wonder of the world.
Rest in peace. Your love, wisdom, and adventurous spirit will never be forgotten.
Visitation will be at the Lynch-Green Funeral Home on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 from 5:00 PM until 7:00 PM.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Benita E. Taylor will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Sacred Heart Church, 337 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Thomas Curry, OSB, as celebrant. Burial will be in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.
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