Denese L. Taylor (nee Smith)

Denese L. Taylor (nee Smith) Denese L. Taylor, age 57, passed away after a long illness on January 2, 2017, surrounded by her family and friends. Born in Barberton, she lived in the Akron area all of her life. Denese had a passion for rescuing animals and loved vacationing at the beach. She also enjoyed gardening and the beauty of flowers and was very proud of her family. Preceded in death by her parents, Hildred and Cleo Smith; brother, Harold; and nephew, Scott, she is survived by her sons, Joshua (Andrea) and Caleb Palmer; daughter, Rachel Taylor; grandchildren, Hannah, Gwendolyn, Ezekiel, Sienna and Alexa; brother, Chester Smith; sister, Joyce (Clayton) Washabaugh; loving friend, Brian Vercuski; special niece, Barbara Burgess; other nieces, nephews and friends; and loyal pal, “Charlie”. The family would like to thank Denese’s dear friend and caregiver, Dawnanna Colson. Friends and family will be received Friday, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hopkins Lawver Funeral Home, 547 Canton Road (Route 91), Akron (Ellet), Ohio 44312. Funeral service will be Saturday, 1 p.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Sharon Bauman officiating. Cremation will follow the service. The family suggests memorials to the Humane Society of Greater Akron, 7996 Darrow Road, Twinsburg, OH 44087. (Hopkins Lawver, AKRON, 330-733-6271) www.hopkinslawver.com