Rebecca Lee Taylor

Becky Taylor, born August 19, 1958, passed away surrounded by family on February 5, 2026. She was deeply loved and will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Becky was the beloved daughter of Juanita and Lou Jurado, and was also preceded in death by her brother, Manuel Jurado (Starla). Raised in a close and loving family, Becky developed a lifelong compassion for others, a strong sense of service, and a deep commitment to caring for those around her.

She graduated from Benedictine College in 1980 and later earned her Master of Science in Education from the University of Kansas in 1989. Her education prepared her for a life devoted to teaching, advocacy, and service.

Becky dedicated her entire professional career to serving as a special education teacher. She had a profound love for her students and believed deeply in every child’s potential. Known for her patience, honesty, and unwavering advocacy, Becky made a lasting impact on countless students, families, and colleagues. Teaching was not simply her profession; it was her calling.

She is survived by her loving husband, Gary; her devoted daughter, Stephanie (Tony Parlato); stepson Guy Taylor (Amy); stepdaughter Heather Ruf (Jake) and her cherished grandchildren, Anabelle and Gianna, who brought her immeasurable joy. She is also survived by her brother, Edward Jurado (Patty), and her beloved nieces, Bella Jurado, Diana Villa, and Ruth Ocon.

Outside the classroom, Becky embraced life fully. She enjoyed kayaking, long walks, biking, and traveling, including a recent cherished trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico with her family and Cancun, Mexico with a close friend. An exceptional cook, she expressed love through food and delighted in hosting family gatherings, especially during the holidays. A lifelong animal lover, Becky shared her life with many cherished furry companions. Many animals just showed up on her front step out of nowhere, and she lovingly adopted each one. She also loved coffee and pastries, as well as discovering new restaurants with friends, and cheering on the Kansas Jayhawks, especially KU basketball.

Words from Friends

Friends and colleagues remember Becky as an essential part of her school community; someone whose presence left a lasting mark on both students and staff. She was deeply loved for her devotion to her students, her humor, her candid and sometimes cantankerous charm, and her gift for mentoring others with honesty and care.

Becky formed meaningful, intentional friendships, and those she welcomed into her life felt truly honored. She offered wise advice, steady encouragement during difficult times, and companionship in simple joys; long walks, kayaking, and shared laughter. Her storytelling, positivity, and straightforward wisdom continue to guide those who knew her. Becky’s name brings smiles to many hearts, children and adults alike, and her memory will be kept alive by all who were fortunate enough to call her a friend.

Becky will be remembered for her generous heart, gentle spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family, her students, and all those entrusted to her care. Her legacy lives on through the many lives she touched.

Cremation services are under the care of Penwell-Gabel Funeral Home. In accordance with Becky’s wishes, her ashes will be spread in the ocean at a later date during a private family ceremony. Memorial contributions may be made to a local animal shelter or rescue organization in Becky’s honor, reflecting her lifelong love for animals. (Welcome to Wayside Waifs | A No Kill Animal Shelter); (Donate | KC Pet Project).