Ms. Willa Jo Taylor Smith

Willa Taylor Smith of Sandersville, transitioned peacefully at her residence on Sunday, April 13, 2025.  Funeral service will be held on Saturday, April 19, 2025 at 1 p.m. at the Robin Spring Baptist Church with interment in the Rest Haven Cemetery.  Visitation will be at the funeral home on Friday, April 18, 2025  from 12 noon p.m. to 6 p.m.

Willa Jo Taylor Smith was born on July 8, 1940, to the late Herman Taylor Sr. and Theresa Brookins Taylor in Washington County, Georgia. She was a proud graduate of T.J. Elder High School. As a young adult, Willa Jo relocated to Newark, New Jersey, where she discovered her passion for caring for others and pursued a career in nursing. She became a Licensed Practical Nurse and dedicated many years to serving her community with compassion and professionalism.

Willa Jo was known for her easy laughter, her take-care-of-business attitude, and her unwavering support for her family and friends. While warm-hearted and giving, she was also strong-willed and never afraid to stand her ground. Her presence was both comforting and commanding — a beautiful balance that left a lasting impression on all who knew her. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Willie James Smith; her parents, Herman Taylor Sr. and Theresa Brookins Taylor; and her siblings: Herman Taylor Jr., Miriam Taylor, Ruby Gordon, Richard Taylor, and Ronald Taylor.

Willa Jo leaves to cherish her memory: siblings Herbert Taylor Sr., Donald Taylor   (Kathleen), Linda Hagans, Brinda Dancy, Jackie Taylor Sr. (Shirley), Ales Marion, Elijah Marion, Randy Barnes, Marie Barnes; sister-in-law Rae Taylor; and a host of beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and close friends. Her life, love, and legacy will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched.