Julia Bell Taylor

Julia Bell (Lewis) Taylor of Puxico, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 1 2024, leaving behind a legacy of love, resilience, and cherished memories. Born on November 23, 1942, in Dexter, Missouri, to the late John and Jessie (Pulumn) Lewis, Julia's life was characterized by the warmth of family, devotion to her beliefs, and tireless passion for the simple joys in life.

In 1961, Julia wed the love of her life, Clarence Taylor, in Dexter, Missouri. Their union was one of profound connection, marked by shared dreams and unwavering support for one another. Together, they nurtured a family and built a home filled with laughter, kindness, and love, until Clarence's passing on August 20, 2021.

A devoted member of the Church of Christ, Julia found strength and comfort in her faith, which served as a guiding light throughout her life. Her comforting presence extended to friends and family alike, who were often welcomed into her loving home.

Julia was a woman of many interests. She found great joy in spending time with her family, tending to her garden, crafting beautiful handmade items, and immersing herself in the pages of novelty and Amish books. These activities not only enriched her own life but also the lives of those around her, as she often shared her creations and stories with a generous heart.

She has now joined the ranks of those who have gone before her; Julia is preceded in death by her beloved husband Clarence Taylor, her parents, her brother Arlie Lewis, and her sisters Carol Richmond and Phebia Lacy.

Her spirit, however, will continue to flourish through her surviving family, which includes her cherished siblings, Eddie "Cookie" (and the late Mary) Taylor of Puxico, Missouri, James Allen (Lisa) Taylor of Bruno, Arkansas, and her brother Bill Lewis of Sikeston, Missouri. Julia’s legacy is further honored by her three daughters: Carolyn Sue (Gary) Barber of Tecumseh, Missouri, Melissa (Bob) Gray of Mountain Home, Arkansas, and Christina (Joe) Scott of Puxico, Missouri.

In addition, Julia leaves behind an incredible lineup of 20 grandchildren, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Among them are Jeramey (Beth) of Bloomfield, Missouri, Shasta (Jimbo) of Puxico, Missouri, and Cynthia (Jacob) of Puxico, Missouri, just to name a few. Her affection extended even further to her 26 great-grandchildren, who were the apples of her eye, including Jakoby, Landrie, Johannah, Camilla, and many more. Several step-grandchildren also survive her, adding to the quilt of family that she cherished.

A host of family and friends will undoubtedly miss her, commemorating the beautiful bonds she nurtured throughout her life. The loving community she built will echo her laughter and memories as they come together to celebrate the remarkable life she led.

Visitation for Julia will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, beginning at 11 A.M. at the Watkins and Sons Funeral Chapel in Puxico, Missouri. The funeral service will follow at 12 P.M., officiated by Rev. Kenneth Lambert. Burial will take place at the Rock Hill Cemetery in Puxico, Missouri, where she will rest alongside her beloved husband.

As we gather to remember Julia Bell Taylor, let us hold close the lessons she taught us about love, family, and dedication, ensuring her spirit lives on in our hearts.

Watkins And Sons Funeral Service is honored to handle all arrangements.