Taylor Dene Nageotte passed away on March 23rd, 2023, at the age of 40. Taylor was born on April 25th, 1982, to loving parents Mark and Laura Nageotte in Lansing, Michigan. She graduated from Lansing Catholic Central High School in 2000, and moved to Phoenix to attend Arizona State University. She graduated with a degree in Family and Human Development in 2010. She went on to become a mathematics teacher at Mountain View Elementary School, Arroyo Elementary School, Vista Verde Middle School, and finally at Paradise Valley High School. Her profession suited her sharp critical thinking skills and ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
Taylor loved crafting, cooking, bird watching, mystery shows, scary movies, reading, music, puzzles, video games, road trips, thunderstorms, flowers, dancing, and hours of conversation. Most of all she loved the company of coworkers, friends, and loved ones.
Taylor was intelligent, perceptive, insightful, creative, confident, charming, goofy, compassionate, resilient, gentle, loving, thoughtful, kind, attentive, and always sensitive to the needs of others. She excelled at everything she set her mind to and had an enviable ability to learn new skills and hobbies. If you knew Taylor, you were immediately aware that she knew something about everything. She could hold her own in a conversation with anyone. She had a brilliant sense of humor, splendid smile, and blissful fits of laughter that overflowed with joy.
Taylor, you are loved more than any words could ever describe. More than any embrace, kiss, or touch could ever feel. More than any deed, act, or gesture could ever express. You fought valiantly in the face of suffering and despite insurmountable odds. You refused to live your life in sorrow. You are a blessing of the highest degree. Weaving the tapestry of love is impossible without threads of grief. In order to love you must be prepared to grieve someday. Love and grief are inseparable. Please know that loving you will always be worth enduring every ounce of grief that your loss carries. We love you so much.
Taylor is survived by her parents Mark and Laura, stepmother Carrie, sister Stephanie, stepdaughter Mackenzie, partner Chris, and loyal canine companion Gretchen.
Visitation will be held from 4 – 7 PM on Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix. On Friday, March 31, 2023 at 10 AM a funeral service will be held at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, with burial service to immediately follow at Paradise Memorial Garden located at 9300 E Shea Blvd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260.
Nik
Taylor may you be at rest in Heaven with our family. You will be missed among us still left behind. We will be thinking of you daily and never forgetting your memory. Love you cousin.
Jenny Golota
To My Best Friends Sister And Family. Prayers And Love. Such Good Memories And Stories These Past 30 Years. So Much Love ❤️
Maggie
I have many fond memories of Taylor has a beginning teacher in the Washington school district! Over the years, she became a BEGIN Cadre Leader… helping other beginning teachers learn to grow and flourish just as she did!!
I was so sad when she first was diagnosed with, cancer…and then was so joyous when she seem to have beat it!! Now my heart breaks again to learn that it has taken her from us!
Taylor, you made an impact on many many people …not only their skill set, but in their heart!
Terry & Veronica Ellenwood
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you. We feel for your tremendous loss.
Cynthia Manns
I have so many found memories of Taylor. I watched her grow from a young pre-teen to a beautiful young woman.
I know there are no words to express the huge loss that you are experiencing. I am sending love and strength to your family during this difficult time. Taylor’s love, light and joy will be with forever ~
Katie Kelley
Taylor you were only a few years old when we met. The day I came to watch you girls for Mom and Dad. You led me around by the hand and showed me everything I needed for the day. Told me how to take care of Stephanie who was just 1 year old and how to feed her just like Momma did.
I loved watching you grow up and being a part of the family. Your passing has left such a huge hole in so many peoples hearts, you are loved.
I love you Laura and Stephanie and am with you even though I can’t be there in person.
Kathy
Taylor, I hadn’t seen you in a long time, but always wondered how you were doing
You made my nephew and his daughter very happy
You will be missed
Darleana Ash
Tay Tay, to know you was to love you. You were an effervescent soul. Your presence will be felt always. I’m honored I was able to share a part of your life.
Ashley (Potter) Grafstrom
Taylor, I am so sad to learn of your passing. We were inseparable in high school. I will never forget our many good times and questionable decision-making. Our many nights at Flap Jacks working with some questionable characters was tolerable because of you. How many Korn concerts did we go to? You had your heart set on Phoenix even back then, I’m so glad you settled there. Love you Taylor, I will remember you fondly always.
Brandi Searles
I love Taylor with my whole heart. I always have. So much that I gave my daughter here middle name dene. I can’t believe this happened to such a beautiful amazing person.
JoAnn Rodriguez
Laura and Family,
Sending our deepest condolences to you and your family. Life does not make sense and losing someone so young is tragic. May your family find strength in your wonderful memories together.
Laura, your daughter lived a fuller life in her short years than many of us will in
decades.Taylor was an example of strength, perseverance and bravery despite her struggle. Our hearts, souls and prayers go out to you and your family at such a harrowing time. Just know that there are no goodbyes for us.
Wherever you are , you will carry your daughter in your heart. Taylor has left many footprints in all the lives she touched. We’re here for you!
JoAnn/Lena and Leonard Rodriguez
The Wilson Family
I am very sorry for your loss. I hope you can find comfort in knowing you have the chance to see Taylor again. The Bible promises, “there is going to be a resurrection” (Acts 24:15). At that time, no resident will say, “I am sick” (Isaiah 33:24)What a wonderful time this will be!
Cousin Kimmi
We will miss Taylor’s beautiful smile! Rest in peace sweet cousin. You were loved by MANY!❤