Mary Jacqueline “Jackie” Finnell Taylor, 72, passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. She was born on January 30th, 1952, in Owensboro, KY, to the late Ruth Roby Finnell and Jack Cline Finnell.
Family was extremely important to Jackie. She was an amazing mother who stayed home to raise both of her daughters before pursuing her dream of a career in science. She was extremely close to her sisters, Pam and Cindy, and spoke with them every day. Jackie was also a devoted grandmother who watched each dance competition and football game.
Jackie was an avid reader throughout her life and a Trivial Pursuit master. She received an undergraduate degree in science from Kentucky Wesleyan College and a master’s degree in science education from Western Kentucky University. During her career, she served as a phlebotomist, a water specimen analyst for Owensboro Municipal Utilities, and an earth and space science teacher at both Owensboro Catholic High School and Ohio County High School. She was an active member of Owensboro Christian Church, for many years, and Christ Community Church.
In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her older sister, Patty Finnell Fultz. Survivors include her daughters, Sarah Taylor Vanover (Rob) of Lexington and Beth Taylor Bennett (Jerry) of Owensboro, her two sisters, Pam Finnell Smith (Phillip) of Atlanta, GA, and Cindy Finnell Griffin (“Mac” Henry) of Owensboro, her brother, Chris Finnell of Owensboro, her grandsons, Jack Vanover and James Vanover of Lexington, eight nieces and nephews, and her loving caregivers, Brenda and Jo.
A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 8, 2024, at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory, with Pastor Myke Templeton officiating. Friends and family are invited to visitation on Friday, November 8, 2024, from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home and Crematory.
Memorial contributions can be made to True North Treatment Center, 121 East Second Street, Owensboro, KY, or to Kentucky Youth Advocates, 10200 Linn Station Road, Suite 310, Louisville, KY 40223.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is both honored and privileged to be entrusted with Mary Jacqueline “Jackie” Finnell Taylor’s care. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Jackie and sign the virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.