Doris Elvira Taylor

Doris Elvira Stone Taylor, age 96, passed away peacefully on March 19, 2026, at home in Banner Elk, North Carolina.

Doris was born at home in Jamaica, New York, on October 13, 1929, a daughter of James Polk Stone Jr. and Elizabeth Mae Lytle. Doris lived a full and meaningful life defined by devotion to her family, her career and her many passions.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, George T. Stone; her beloved husband, Edwin Drummond Taylor, Sr.; her son, Edwin Drummond Taylor, Jr. and her daughter-in-law, Gay Angel Taylor.

Doris is survived by her children, Charles G. Taylor (Gay), James L. Taylor and Suzanne E. Taylor. She also leaves behind a legacy through her grandchildren: Lauren A. Taylor-Little (Joey), Taylor N. Walker (Tyler), John H. Blanton (Julia), Kyle L. Taylor (Addison), David D.Taylor, Michael Austin (Jenny) and Ashley Austin (Aiden). Her joy extended even further to her great-grandchildren: Wayne, Sawyer, Coraline, Kendall, Sage, Kaya, Kate, Tyler and Jake.

Doris was a lifelong learner and accomplished scholar. She graduated from GESU Catholic High School, earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Appalachian State University and went on to receive her Master of Public Health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

She dedicated 37 years to the nursing profession, ultimately serving as Director of Nursing at Beaufort Memorial Hospital in Beaufort, South Carolina. Her work reflected her deep compassion, leadership and commitment to caring for others.

Doris shared a beautiful marriage with her husband, Edwin, whom she considered one of the greatest joys of her life. Together, they built a loving family and a home filled with warmth and connection that has resonated deeply in the lives of their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A woman of many passions, Doris was a talented artist whose work told powerful stories depicting scenes of the Lowcountry, African cultures, and the Ellis Island immigrant experience, to name a few. She was also an avid family historian, spending countless hours researching ancestry and preserving her family's legacy.

Above all, Doris cherished time with her family and friends. Her home was a gathering place filled with good food, laughter, and love; she was truly the ultimate hostess.

Charleston and the Lowcountry were more than just where she lived; it was home in every sense of the word. She cherished its rich history, costal beauty and the life she built there over many years.

Her warmth and nurturing presence, along with her wisdom, strength and vibrant personality, made her unforgettable! She carried a caring heart, a determined spirit, and a touch of spunk that brought laughter and light to those around her.

A special thanks to her caregiver, Sherry and Amorem Hospice Shante', Elise, Nannett, Britteny, Gail, Daphne, Jessie and Thea. We will always be profoundly grateful for the compassion and loving care she received.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to one of the charities that Doris supported: St. Jude Children's Hospital, Tunnels to Towers, Wounded Warriors and Disabled Veterans.

A graveside Celebration of Life will be held 10:00 AM Saturday, March 28, 2026, at St. James Episcopal Churchyard, 1872 Camp Road, James Island. Refreshments will follow in the parlor room at St. James Episcopal Church. In honor of Doris' vibrant spirit, guests are encouraged to wear bright colors...no black or navy.

Arrangements by James A. McAlister, Inc. (843) 766-1365.