Ann Taylor
April 26, 1929 - February 28th, 2025
Harriet Ann Taylor, lovingly known as “Annie” to all who knew her, passed away peacefully at the age of 95 and is now with her God in Heaven.
Born on April 26, 1929, in Saint Louis, MO, Annie was the eldest of two daughters to Dorothy Zerweck and Harry Lester Long.
Annie was a woman of remarkable strength and authenticity. Her vibrant spirit and unwavering resilience left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her. A true trailblazer, Annie’s life was characterized by her adventurous nature, strong will, and her candid approach to life.
At just 21, Annie embarked on a courageous journey, leaving her hometown on a Greyhound bus bound for California. It was there she met her beloved husband, Robert Ferris Taylor, with whom she shared 38 years of marriage. Together, they built a beautiful life in the Pacific Palisades, where Annie lived for over 70 years. From Embury Street to Galloway Street, and finally to her cherished home of 62 years on Via De La Paz, Annie’s legacy in the Palisades is timeless. Though her home was tragically lost in the Palisades fire of 2025, her enduring spirit remains in the community.
At a time when few women were in the workplace, Annie defied the norm with her dedication and hard work. She began her career as a secretary in real estate with Robert Wadsworth, a prominent West LA developer, and through perseverance and talent, rose to Chief Operating Officer, a role she held for decades. Her influence extended beyond her career, as she poured her energy into community initiatives, including launching the youth Pop Warner Football concession stand and actively supporting the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. All three of her sons became Eagle Scouts with Troop 223 under the incredible guidance of Michael K. Lanning.
Annie and Bob raised six wonderful children in the Palisades, creating lifelong memories through fishing, camping, and adventures across the globe. In 1984, when the Baja Road was finally paved, they built a home on the beach in Cabo San Lucas, becoming early American pioneers of the region. Following Bob’s passing, Annie spent cherished years on the east cape of Cabo San Lucas.
Her generosity knew no bounds — Annie was always ready to lend a helping hand. She found immense joy in her family, treasuring time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her love for clever household hacks, a great bargain, and a friendly game of cards or board games brought light and laughter to those around her.
Annie is survived by her sister Joyce Abel; her children: Bob Taylor (Dana); Cheryl Higgins (Peter); Susie Taylor; and Tim Taylor (Morgan). Annie is predeceased by her beloved son Jeff Taylor and his two-year-old daughter Bayden, who tragically passed together in a car fire behind the Palisades Methodist Church in 2004. She is also predeceased by her husband Robert Ferris Taylor, her daughter Mary Taylor, and her great-granddaughter Gwen Gonacha. Annie’s proud legacy lives on through her eight grandchildren—Kendyl, Ryley, Weston, Taylor, Connor, Preston, Bryce, and Levi—and her three great-grandchildren—AJ, Italia, and Colin.
Annie Taylor will be remembered for her generous spirit, and the profound impact she had on those around her. Her legacy of resilience, grit, and unwavering love will continue to inspire and shine brightly in the hearts of her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and forever cherished. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew her.