FRANKLIN – Gwen Stone Taylor, 63, went home to be with Jesus, on Saturday, Aug. 14, 2021.
Born in Charlotte, North Carolina, Gwen was the daughter of Sylvia Freeman Stone and the late Wayne Stone. In addition to her dad, she was preceded in death by a sister, Sheila Stephens.
Gwen retired from Macon County DSS, where she had worked in human resources; and had previously worked as a social worker with the Lumberton Police Department. She graduated from UNC Pembroke.
While living in Franklin, she was an active member at Iotla Baptist Church, where she served as church clerk; sang in the choir; and was on the Vacation Bible School committee. She had a passion for Main Street programs of downtown Franklin; and served as president for the Streets of Franklin Heritage Association. Gwen was co-owner of The Dusty Pallet in Franklin. The thing Gwen enjoyed most was spending time with her family, especially her only granddaughter, Macie.
She is survived by her mother, Sylvia Freeman Stone of Lumberton, North Carolina; husband of 27 years, Matt Taylor; daughter, Sharon Bennett (Todd) of Franklin; and granddaughter, Macie Bennett. Mrs. Taylor is also survived by a sister, Teresa McNeill (Mark); brother, Michael Stone; brother-in-law, Gregory Stephens; nephews, Marcus McNeill and Andy Locklear; and numerous cousins.
Funeral services will be Tuesday, Aug. 24, at 2 p.m. at Iotla Baptist Church. Rev. Brandon Breedlove and Rev. Steve Reeves will officiate. Burial will be in the Iotla Baptist Church cemetery.
The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Iotla Baptist Church.
Pallbearers will be Roland Mock, Clayton Oxendine, Frank Belanger, Rodney Vanhook, Terry Freeman, and Charles Haliburton.
The family respectfully ask for masks to be worn and safe social distancing be practiced.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Streets of Franklin Heritage Association, 52 E. Main St., Franklin, NC 28734.
Condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com. Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.