Jannie Mae Keels-Taylor

With deepest sympathy, we at Graham and Godwin Funeral Home  regret to announce the passing of Mrs. Jannie Mae Keels-Taylor of Jonesboro, Georgia.

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Lif Reflections

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life.

The one who believes in me will live, even though they die." JOHN 11:25

Jannie Mae Keels Taylor passed away peacefully Wednesday, November 15, 2023, in Jonesboro, Georgia at the age of 93. She was born June 16, 1930, to the late Hannah and Charlie Green. Jannie was active in her church, community, and the lives of all her family until she became ill.

Jannie graduated in 1949 with a BS Degree in Education from Morris College in Sumter, South Carolina. After graduating, she taught at Carver High School in Lake City, South Carolina. She later moved to Brooklyn, New York and continued her teaching career at PS5 School, which she worked tirelessly to have renamed after the late astronaut, Dr. Ronald E. McNair prior to retiring in 1995.

She loved flowers and loved gardening. She found it relaxing to plant flowers and beautify her yard.

This was a time when she would have conversations with neighbors and others in the community. So, it was not unusual to see cars lined by the fence and her engaging in small talk.

Family was the center of her life. She was always behind the scenes supporting her children and grandchildren and their passions.

As a mother, she always supported her children in their sports,

education, and life decisions. What was important to her children, was important to her. She was so proud of each child for their achievements, their spouses whom she loved as her own children, and for giving her the special gifts of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Nothing made her happier than having all her family together, having fun, "mixing well" and creating lasting family bonds. Her favorite family gathering spot was her house because she had it filled with all sorts of trinkets that she loved.

Before her illness, she had a strong bond with family members who kept her up to date on the daily events and family activities and accomplishments. There was always something sweet to offer family and friends who regularly visited. Her final year was a challenge with the effects of dementia, but all her family rallied to support her and keep her safe and comfortable.

"Granny" as she was affectionately called was the matriarch of her family, a strong role model, the glue that kept everyone close, and someone everyone loved and cherished. She will be forever remembered, always loved, and will eternally hold a special place in the hearts of her family and friends.

Jannie was preceded in death by her husbands, Louis Keels, Sr. and Leroy Taylor, and her brother, Willie Mack Nelson, Jr.

Loved ones on this side to forever embrace the gift of her life are her three children; Louis Keels, Jr.

(Maryann) of Charlotte, North Carolina, Miriam Keels Graham her late husband Major Jerry C.

Graham) of Jonesboro, Georgia, and Gerald E. Keels, Sr. (Elaine) of Lake City, South Carolina; One brother Dewayne Green of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; a daughter-in-law, Rethia Keels of Lake City, South Carolina; Proud Granny of Keesha M. Keels, Gerald E. Keels, Jr., Jerushia Graham, Octavia Graham, Jermal Keels (Kimberly), Melissa Keels and Sterling Graham; Great Granny of Maliaka Keels, Rae' Kuan Keels, Zhiana Moore, Tireki Keels, Zhireana Carson, Ti'Zuraeiu Keels, Jewel Keels, Kingston Keels, Khylee Carson, Ashton Green and Samson Carson, Jr.; Seven great-great grands; a sister-in-law, Bernice Nelson of Bronx, New York; Jannie is also survived by many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.