Renate Regina Taylor

Renate Regina Taylor, 81, passed away on April 21, surrounded by the warmth and love of her family. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, perseverance, and steadfast commitment to all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Renate was born and raised in war-torn Berlin, Germany, during the final years of World War II and the difficult period that followed. Her loving parents, Georg and Margarita Reeder, made the selfless decision after her birth to keep her in the hospital for a time so she could receive the nourishment and care needed to grow strong during a period of severe scarcity. That early chapter of hardship helped shape the gratitude, toughness, and determination that defined her life. Renate was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Peter Reeder.

As a young woman, Renate fell in love with an American soldier, Myron Eugene Taylor, beginning a love story that brought her across the ocean to the United States. They were married for 62 years, building a life rooted in hard work, faith, and family. Side by side, they created a business, a home, and a family that became the center of Renate’s world.

She was proud to become an American citizen and deeply appreciated the opportunities this country gave her.

Renate was the devoted mother of Christine, Stephen, and Star, and mother-in-law to Kellie Taylor, Frank Ricci and Jorge Benitez. The family thanks Myron’s sister, Anita Grooms, for supporting and helping our family during this trying time.

Lovingly known as “Nani,” she was the cherished grandmother of Jacqueline DeMars, Nicholas Ricci, Ashley Anagnostiadis, Heather King, Katlyn Taylor, Adrianna Taylor, Austin Taylor, Logan Benitez Taylor, Sonya Benitez, and India Taylor, each of whom brought her immeasurable pride and joy. Every grandchild felt they were the center of her world. She also held close the spouses who became part of her family: Brandon DeMars, Chantel Ricci, Manoli Anagnostiadis, and Harry King.

Nani was further blessed as a great-grandmother to Zoe Grace DeMars, Virginia Taylor, Peter Taylor, Maria and Nicholas Anagnostiadis, and Wesley and Owen King.

Renate was the heart of her family—warm, strong, and deeply loyal. She had a special bond with those around her and a sharp wit and wonderful sense of humor that drew people to her. People sought her advice, her comfort, and the joy of her company. She listened deeply, loved fiercely, and stood firm when strength was needed most. She enjoyed being part of the Damascus Farmers Market and a lifelong love of reading, flowers Myron planted for her, and antiques. 

Renate Regina Taylor’s life was a testament to perseverance, family, and the power of love to overcome even the hardest beginnings. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always cherished.

A private family service will be held at Norbeck Memorial Park 16225 Batchellors Forest Rd in Olney, Maryland, at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 28.

Flowers may be sent to Barber Funeral Home, 21525 Laytonsville Rd, Laytonsville, MD 20882. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Renate Regina Taylor, please visit our floral store.