Myra Nicholson Taylor

Myra Nicholson Taylor, affectionately known as Myra, passed away peacefully on March 27, 2024. Born on August 22, 1937, in Richmond County, Myra's life was a testament to love, passion, and community service.

A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, April 3, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Troy, officiated by Reverend Nick Allen. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church.

Myra's journey began as the daughter of Lawrence and Tina Nicholson. She grew up in Richmond County and later moved to Mt. Gilead, where she attended high school and was known for her tenacious spirit on the basketball court, despite standing at a petite 5'1". This fierce nature extended into her later years, marking her as a competitive force in senior tennis competitions.

Myra's life was marked by her enduring commitment to her community and her faith. After marrying her first husband, Bobby Parnell, the family of three (daughter, Ellen) moved to Troy. It was there, in 1964, that she began her longstanding association with the town she grew to love so dearly. In 1970, their son, Robert Adam Parnell was born.

As an active member of the First Baptist Church, she served in various capacities, including as a Sunday School teacher, a member of the Adult Choir, the Budget Committee, and as Treasurer. Her dedication to service was evident through her instrumental work with Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box Ministry for Samaritan's Purse. Myra had also served on the Sandhills Regional Library Board. Myra's compassion extended beyond her local community as she participated in mission trips to rebuild areas devastated by Hurricane Katrina, even learning to hang sheet rock, which she said jokingly that she could add that to her many accomplishments.

 A lifelong lover of gardening, Myra earned her Master Gardener Certification from N.C. State University, enhancing her knowledge and allowing her to share her passion with the community. Her gardens were a source of joy and pride, reflecting the beauty and care she brought to every aspect of her life.

Myra's enthusiasm for tennis was matched by her love for travel. Still, she often said that nothing compared to the peace and contentment she found at home, tending to her beloved flower garden. Her presence was a nurturing force, and she was often described by those who knew her as loving and passionate.

Myra had worked alongside her husband at Troy Lumber Company for many years as an accountant. Her passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew her, but her spirit will continue to inspire and guide her family and friends. Myra Nicholson Taylor's life was a beautiful garden that she cultivated with love, and it will continue to bloom in the memories of all who were fortunate enough to have been a part of it. Her grace, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her loved ones and community will be deeply missed and forever cherished.

Her heart was full of love for her family. She is survived by her devoted husband of 34 years, Frederick Harrison Taylor of the home; her daughter, Ellen Parnell Peterson (Bill) of Candor; step-son, Fred L. Taylor (Melissa) of Biscoe, and their children, Emma and Harrison; step-daughter, Louisa Taylor Harmon (Jay), and their children, Isabella and Julian; and her niece, Lisa Blake Richardson (Steve), along with their two daughters and four grandchildren. Preceding her in death were her parents, her son, Robert Adam Parnell, and her sister, Meriam Nicholson Blake.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church of Troy Kitchen Fund, 401 E Main S., Troy, NC 27371 or the Baptist Children’s Home of NC, 204 Idol St., Thomasville, NC 27360.

Bumgarner Family Funeral Service is serving the family.

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