Earline B. Taylor London, 1936-2024

Earline was 87, born Dec. 3, 1936, in Youngstown, to the late Samuel Frank Taylor and the late Martha Elizabeth Jackson Robinson. She was a graduate of South High School. As an original Southsider, she cherished her upbringing on St. Louis Avenue and her time spent with her Harris family. Earline was proud to also call the Lower West Side River Bend area home. She would say, reflecting on her deep-rooted pride in Youngstown, “It is not what they call a place but the love and unity that community gives which matters.”

Earline married the late Jeff D. London Jr., and in the early years of marriage she lived with her London family. The 25-year union produced three children who were the center of her world, Sheila London Livas (Julius), Jeff T. London and Marlene L. London. She raised them in the neighborhoods of St. Louis Avenue and Princeton Avenue, instilling in them a sense of pride as South High Warriors and a Mooney Cardinal. Her granddaughters, Shelene Monet Livas and Julie Catherine Livas Harrison, both of San Antonio, Texas, along with her great-grandchildren, Tyson Julius Harrison and Julia Monet Harrison, brought immense joy to her life. She adored being called “Gaga” and she lit up at their visits.

Earline’s commitment to family extended beyond her immediate circle; she maintained close connections with her two half-brothers, the late Robert Sanders and the late Charles Stevens, and she was a dedicated friend to many. As a social butterfly, she built loyal relationships throughout her life, creating a vast network of love and support in her community.

Earline’s faith and love for God shined through her interactions with others. She united with Jerusalem Baptist Church at 18, later attended the World Fellowship Interdenominational Church, and ultimately made New Bethel Baptist Church her home, where she served for over 55 years in various ministries. She was active in the adult Sunday school, altar guild, and hospitality ministries, and served in the kitchen ministry for many Easter sunrise services. She laid a Christian foundation for her children and encouraged them to always keep God first.

Earline was a hard-working woman known for her unwavering work ethic. She proudly carried two nicknames that exemplified her work ethic, “Sarg” and “Over-time Earl” the latter being affectionately coined by her son-in-law. She learned the value of hard work early on, picking vegetables at the Chicago Avenue field with her treasured grandmother, Lena Taylor, who raised her. Her career included American Paper Products and 28 years with General Electric in Youngstown and Warren. After retirement, she continued to support the community by working with the Youngstown school system’s grandparents program, at Stein Mart (which she said was her calling — fashion), and For Kids’ Sake Preschool & Daycare, where she cared for infants and toddlers.

Earline was a great joke teller, a sports fan, and was devoted to The Ohio State Buckeyes, Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Her enthusiasm during games was infectious, often accompanied by cheers of “lay the hammer down” or “run boy, run.” She enjoyed playing cards, po-keno, bingo and visiting casinos.

Her dedication to friendship was unparalleled; she was a faithful member of Woman-Hand-In-Hand for 35 years and a member of the A String of Pearls chapter of the Red Hat Society, where she was a former vice queen mother. As a founding member of social clubs like The Classy Ladies and The Social Lights, she cherished gathering with friends for worthy causes over delicious meals. Throughout her life, she encouraged her children and grandchildren to pursue higher education and to never miss an opportunity to vote. A phenomenal Godly woman, indeed!

Earline was preceded in death by her parents, half-brothers and many dear friends. She leaves a loving legacy, including her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, a special cousin, Valerie Lisbon, nieces, nephews and a host of relatives and friends. Although our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing she now has everlasting joy and peace.

May Earline rest in eternal peace, her essence forever radiant in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. Let us carry her legacy in our hearts and minds, cherishing the moments shared with a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many with her compassion and kindness.

As we gather to celebrate Earline’s life and honor her memory, let us remember her as a symbol of resilience, empathy and boundless love.

Celebration of life services will begin 10 a.m. Monday, Oct. 28, 2024, at New Bethel Baptist Church, 1507 Hillman St., commencing with family viewing and visitation. Homecoming services will begin at 11 a.m., with Pastor Kenneth L. Simon officiating. At the conclusion of services, Earline will be laid to rest within the serene landscaping of Tod Homestead Cemetery.

At this most intimate time, the beloved family of Earline Barbara Taylor London elected to entrust the ministry of comfort and care and professional aftercare arrangements with J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Ave., Youngstown, OH 44511, 330-782-8500.

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