Irene A. Taylor

Irene “Cookie Baby” Taylor, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, was welcomed home to be with the Lord on February 10, 2026, in her hometown of Richmond, Virginia.

Born on November 7, 1950, Irene lived a full and vibrant 75 years, leaving behind a legacy of love, inspiration, and a faith that carried her through every season of life.

A dedicated professional in education and healthcare, Irene spent her life nurturing and caring for others. In her personal life, she was a free spirit with a soul for adventure, an eye for the beauty in old things, and a true foodie who treated every meal like a celebration. She spent her time pursuing hobbies that fed her creative side, whether painting, building carpentry projects, or hunting for vintage treasures. Yet nothing brought her more joy than the time she spent with her grandchildren.

At the age of 67, Irene fulfilled an earlier goal by earning her Bachelor of Science degree with a minor in psychology from Liberty University. Undeterred by age, she began pursuing a Master of Arts in Pastoral Counseling (Community Chaplaincy) in 2024 at 73, reflecting her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth.

One of Irene’s proudest achievements came at 75, when she fulfilled a newly set goal of traveling to Costa Rica, her first trip abroad. Through determination and planning, she made that dream a reality, showing her grandchildren that it is never too late to try something new, face your fears, move forward with courage, and live a life without regrets.

In her final months, Irene embraced the “Pura Vida” philosophy, Costa Rica’s mantra of living a pure and simple life. She chose daily to focus on what truly matters: family, health, and peace of mind. She encouraged her loved ones to adopt this mindset, reminding them to savor life’s small joys and live intentionally.

Irene was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lottie Taylor; her aunt and uncle, William and Lucille Jackson; her brothers, Elmore Taylor Sr. and Jerome Jackson; and her sisters, Juanita Payne and Geraldine Johnson.

She is survived by her daughters, Sheree Johnson and Shante Prince; nine grandchildren, Rasul “Tre” Prince, Asia Johnson, Nasia Shabazz, Miles Johnson, Aniya Johnson, Mason Johnson, Prince Johnson, Rashad Johnson, and Jaziyah Johnson; one great-grandchild, Armias Robinson; two brothers, William Taylor Sr. (Gayzelle), James “Roger” Taylor (Ernestine), and James “Jimmy” Jackson (Diane); sister-in-law Elaine Taylor; brother-in-law
Thomas Payne Sr.: and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who cherished her presence in their lives.

A graveside committal service will be held Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 12:00 noon at St. James Baptist Church, 3193 Lee’s Landing Road, Powhatan, VA 23139.

In memory of Irene, let us all strive to live by her example, embracing each day with love, faith, and the spirit of Pura Vida.