Helen Taylor

Helen Taylor, 89, of Beaumont, passed away on September 16, 2019, in Beaumont.

Cremation will be held under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home. The family plans a memorial service next summer in Sister Bay, Wisconsin, where her ashes will be laid to rest in the memorial garden behind her church, alongside her sister’s.

Born in Chicago, Illinois, on January 12, 1930, she was the daughter of Carl Roy Axell and Inez (Gullborg) Axell. Helen was born and raised in Chicago, where her heart remained for many years after leaving. She graduated with highest distinction at Northwestern University, receiving a major in mathematics and a minor in psychology. Helen worked in Illinois on the shape of airplane wings and in Texas as a computer programmer, and was a longtime member of AAUW (American Association of University Women). Helen enjoyed being active, spending time outdoors, often hiking, cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and traveling. She was dedicated to remaining active, and often took exercise classes with vigor. Helen was an animal lover and a huge supporter of animal rights, often feeding birds, and taking in stray cats. She took nature preservation very seriously, always valuing and appreciating the environment and life around her. Helen was a member of Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Door County, which she helped found when she moved to Wisconsin for her retirement. She volunteered at her church and the Beaumont State Center. Among her many talents and hobbies, she sang in her church choir, and played the piano beautifully. She enjoyed cross stitching, crosswords, jigsaw puzzles, but most of all watching her Cubs! Helen was strong willed but had a gentle spirit and a kind heart. All those who had the privilege of having Helen in their lives, will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carl and Inez Axell; sister, Sarah Naber; and uncle & aunt, John and Dolly Sterling.

She is survived by her children, Lisa Dimberg and husband Mark of Evanston, Illinois, David Taylor of Beaumont, Mark Taylor and wife Catherine of Beaumont, and Caroline Garner and husband Stephen of Nacogdoches; grandchildren, Geoffrey Garner of Fort Worth, Elaine Garner of Phoenix, Arizona; and cousin, John Sterling and wife Betsy of Asheville, North Carolina.