Beverly J. Taylor

Beverly J. Taylor, 89, of East Syracuse, passed away on Thursday, October 17th after many years with dementia. She was born in Syracuse, NY. Beverly was in the top of the class of 1953 at Central Square High School, being Vice President and third academically. After graduation she chose not to attend college, instead going to work for GE in the TV unit. After a short period, a layoff came and she moved to her sister's farm in Mannsville, NY. She did two jobs there a secretary by day and a waitress by night. After a year on the farm, she joined the Marine Corps., serving from 1955-1957. Beverly trained at Parris Island, SC and then was a secretary for three Officers. After completing her service, she moved to Albuquerque, NM and worked for the telephone company. After 10 years, she moved back to NY and began work for Verizon, where she retired in 1994 with 37 years of service. 

She loved the outdoors, especially camping and canoeing. She assisted with a Girl Scout Troop for many years and was involved with several other women’s organizations. Beverly was an animal lover, especially her cats. 

Beverly was an avid photographer. She was able to document the Women’s movement of the 1980s, events with friends and family and trips around the world. 

Beverly was predeceased by her parents, her sister, Geraldine Fitzgerald and a nephew. 

She is survived by her wife of 40 years, Gretchen Barfoot; three children, Tina (Melissa) Lesley-Fox, Brian (Tara) Barfoot and Alisha Caswell; grandchildren, Mia Lesley-Fox, Dorothy Barfoot, Adam Barfoot, Brandon Domervil and Logan Caswell; many nieces and nephews. 

A Celebration of Beverly’s life will be held at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to CNY Cat Coalition, PO Box 6182, Syracuse, NY 13217 and Sage Upstate, 431 East Fayette Street, Syracuse, NY 13202. 

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