Patsy Irene Taylor

Patsy Irene Taylor (Irene), 89, of Hickory, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at Brookdale Hickory Northeast on Wednesday, June 10, 2026.

Born on April 19th, 1937, in Asheville, NC, she was the beloved daughter of the late Oscar Laund Calloway and Vista Follett Calloway.

Irene graduated from Biltmore High School in 1955 and went on to work for Merrill Lynch for over 30 years, retiring in 1992. She was a devoted Christian, loving mother, cherished family member, loyal friend, and a source of strength and kindness to everyone who knew her. Throughout her life, she touched countless hearts with her feisty spirit, gentle wisdom, larger than life laugh, quick wit, and remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcomed and valued.

She found happiness in volunteering with Meals on Wheels and in the office at West Asheville Baptist Church. Her laughter, comforting presence, and thoughtful acts of kindness created memories that will be cherished forever.

She is survived by her daughter, Teresa Howell, and fiancé David Underwood; sister, Judy Cauble of Asheville; and a number of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sisters, Pauline Edney, and Elizabeth McLaughlin; her brothers, Johnny Calloway, Dewey Calloway, Carl Calloway, and Claude Calloway.

Though our hearts are heavy with loss, we are grateful for the many years, memories, and blessings we shared with her. Her love remains woven into the fabric of our lives, and her spirit will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know her.

A memorial service will be held on July 9, 2026, at West Asheville Baptist Church, located at 926 Haywood Road, Asheville, NC 28806. The memorial service will be held at 1:00 pm with Dr. Stan Welch officiating. Friends are invited to gather in remembrance of a woman whose life was a beautiful example of love, devotion, and compassion.

In lieu of flowers, consider honoring her with a donation to Meals on Wheels, 146 Victoria Rd, Asheville, NC 28801.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.caringcremations.net. The Taylor family has entrusted arrangements to Caring Cremations Life Celebrations and Funerals at 828-855-3350.