(Courtesy Obituary for Shives Funeral Home)

Jean Taylor Blaylock, whose generous spirit touched many lives, passed away peacefully on May 17th. Born in Chester, SC to DuRant and Frances Taylor, Jean brought warmth and joy to everyone fortunate enough to know her. After graduating from Chester High School in 1956, Jean earned her degree from Queens College in Charlotte, NC in 1960. She began her teaching career at Myers Park Elementary School and later, after marrying Carl O. Blaylock and moving to Columbia, she taught at Saint Andrew's Elementary School. She was later employed by McWaters Office and Business Supplies. Jean had a remarkable gift for decorating, transforming spaces with her artistic vision at home, at their beach condo and at Centennial ARP Church, where she was deeply involved in women's ministries, as well as helping friends and family members in decorating their homes. She enjoyed many activities — reading, tennis matches, card games with dear friends, beach getaways, concerts, and especially memorable travels including North and South America, Europe, Russia, China and Australia. Jean's thoughtful gestures and genuine kindness extended naturally to friends, family and acquaintances alike. She was preceded in death by her parents, DuRant and Frances Mills Taylor, and her brother, John Barron Taylor. Jean leaves behind her loving husband, Carl, of 64 years; his sister, Jimmie Stewart; Jean's sister, Frances Ramsey (Reggie); and her brother, Tommy (Val). Though she had no children of her own, Jean was a beloved aunt who created special bonds with each of her nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews. The graveside service for family and close friends was held at 11 o'clock, Wednesday, May 21st, at Evergreen Cemetery, Chester, SC, with Rev. Dwight Pearson officiating. Shives Funeral Home, Trenholm Road Chapel, is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Centennial ARP Church in Columbia or Queens University in Charlotte, NC., honoring the value of faith and education that Jean cherished throughout her life.