Mary Taylor was born on July 22, 1944, in Rhinelander. She passed peacefully on Feb. 7, 2021, in Albuquerque, N.M. after a six-year journey with Alzheimer’s disease. She managed this disease with grace, dignity and courage. Up until July 29, 2020, she stayed at home with her husband, Don and wonderful caregiver, Katherine Jane Battey. During the course of this disease, Mary’s favorite words were “Thank you, I am happy, I love you.”

Mary had an enjoyable childhood growing up in a small town. She was very active snow skiing, canoeing, sailing, camping, tennis and playing the piano and flute.  She was valedictorian in high school then went on to Northwestern University for her undergraduate degree and then to the University of Wisconsin for her MBA in finance. Later in life, she returned to the University of New Mexico for an undergraduate degree in music. She was most proud of this accomplishment.

Mary worked as an auditor and tax accountant most of her adult working life. Between employers, she spent 11 years working as the Assistant Director of the UNM Music Prep School. Working with children and music was one of her greatest joys.

Her parents, Lloyd Raymond Taylor and Dorothy Craig Taylor predeceased her. Mary’s older sister, Diana Taylor Isenring, also predeceased her. Survivors include her husband, Don Hurst, her son, Ian Taylor Hurst and spouse, Stephanie Kelley Hurst, and her son, Zachary David Hurst, and partner, Adrianne Huxtable. Mary is also survived by two grandchildren.  Also surviving are Mary’s brother, Craig Taylor and spouse, Marcie Taylor and Mary’s sister, Barbara Taylor Anderson.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held with the family at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s honor may be made to the charity of your preference, the Alzheimer’s Association of New Mexico, or University of New Mexico Music Prep School.