Sarah Ruffin Taylor

Sarah Ruffin Taylor was born in 1927 to William Ruffin and Lucille Hammett Ruffin of New Augusta, MS. Those humble roots helped to foster her abounding love for family, characteristic gratitude, and selflessness. It was also there she met the love of her life, Richard Lewis Taylor, whom she wed in April 1947. The two were an inseparable pair until the end. They faced happy times, sad times, hardships, and celebrations united. Together they raised four children and welcomed eight grandchildren. After his death in May 1999, she continued to carry the family’s torch for the next 25 years. She spread her love and joy throughout the community as a kindergarten tutor and YMCA afterschool leader. Her relationships with friends and family were her greatest happiness, and her absence will be felt deeply by those blessed to know her.

Mrs. Taylor is preceded in death by the love of her life, Richard L. Taylor (1999).

Survivors include her four adoring children, Beth Denton (Rodney), Debra Newman (Scott), Richard Taylor (Cheryl) and Cindy Woodard (Mark); along with eight grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. 

In accordance with her wishes, her body has been donated to the LSU Medical Research Facility in Shreveport, LA.

In lieu of flowers, she and the family request that donations be made to the Louisiana Baptist Children’s Home (lbch.org) or charity of one’s choice.

The family will receive friends at the family home on Thursday, October 17, 2024, from 2 to 4pm, to celebrate the abundant life and legacy of Mrs. Sarah Pearl.