Gloria Taylor
Gloria Beverly Taylor, from Santa Barbara, died on January 30th, 2023, at 93 years old.
She was born in 1929 to Aldula May Street, and South America Storm, in Birmingham Michigan. As a child she grew up in Bremerton Washington, and was raised in the Mormon faith. She later moved to Salt Lake City to attend Brigham Young University. She met her future husband, Max Byron Taylor in Salt Lake City. Max was a recent graduate of The University of Southern California (USC) and was born and raised in Moab Utah.
They had 3 daughters, Kathryn, Christine, and Loretta. Gloria joined the world famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir and traveled the world preforming in world famous venues. While in New York City the choir appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show, where she was featured, singing in her unique high soprano voice. Gloria also sang in the choir for President John F. Kennedy in Temple Square.
In 1960, she sadly lost her amazing singing voice, and resigned from her beloved choir. Soon after, she left the Mormon Church. Gloria took a job as an executive secretary, and shortly was divorced. It was a difficult time for her, working and raising 3 young daughters, all as a single Mom. Despite her struggles she always had an uplifting spirit and positive attitude on life.
During the 1980s, Gloria departed Salt Lake City for San Francisco, where she established her new home. Her charming apartment near Ghirardelli Square boasted a breathtaking view, becoming a beloved gathering place for her family. Together, they embarked on countless adventures aboard the city’s iconic trolleys, exploring parks, museums, and Pier 39, creating cherished memories along the way.
During the early 2000s, Gloria departed from San Francisco, relocating to Santa Barbara to enjoy her retirement and be nearer to her family, particularly her cherished grandchild, Mia. Gloria’s affection for Mia was boundless; she devoted all her spare moments to the delight of planning park picnics, trips to the zoo and other engaging activities together.
Gloria passed away on January 30th 2023. A graveside service was held in her honor on February 8th, 2023.
She will always be remembered as a devoted mother, and grandmother to Andre, Sarita, Talia, Taylor, Mia, and great grandmother to James.. Her kindness and truly adventuresome spirit will forever live on.