Frances Emily (Palma) Taylor

Fran “Dolly” married her Big John in 1946. They had 5 children during their years living in both New Jersey and California. In 1960 they purchased a newly built home on 20th Street in Santa Ana and lived out their decades in that perfect setting.

She was the little Italian powerhouse who could cook for a crowd but still have energy left for the laughter and stories around the table when the meal was over. She mastered the art of “the iron fist in a velvet glove”. In fact, she could just give a look with those intense eyes of hers….it was usually enough to get all the kids in line and behaving as expected. No one wanted to have the full wrath of her “or else” ultimatum.

Fran could create the glue to hold all the moving parts of a family together. In-laws, cousins, neighbors and old buddies all felt like they were “family” with the Taylors. Her good home-cooked meals created a comfort zone for all who gathered. When you are devouring mountains of Italian food you just can't think of anything more wonderful than being with loved ones.

All five of the Taylor kids felt a tight bond of family, knew the dedication and love of both parents, and had the warmth of a chattering & busy home life to enrich them. The Taylor house was not a quiet place; it was industrious and interactive and challenging at times too.

Frances always had the big picture in mind. She could manage the family dynamic, work full time outside the home, entertain, maintain and clean, plan and save to get ahead….and she still had time to play bridge, coffee-klatch with neighbors, and take walks around the neighborhood. A life well lived is the truth about Fran.

Her faith and beliefs have remained at the forefront of her life. Now she can be rejoined with her dear ones in Heaven. She knows for sure that God will grant the eternal happiness she has prayed for.

Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:10 PM Friday, April 21, 2017 at Holy Family Cathedral, 566 S. Glassell Street, Orange. A reception will follow immediately at The Villa, 510 E. Katella Avenue, Orange.

The committal service will take place privately at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery, Orange.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate contributions to the American Cancer Society in her memory.