To Celebrate a Life of Love: Roswitha S. Taylor
July 1, 1941-February 9, 2022
Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, and friend, Roswitha S. Taylor died peacefully in her home on February 9, 2022, at the age of 80.
She was born in Cologne, Germany on July 1, 1941, during the midst of World War II. She found refuge from the war by seeking security with family friends in the countryside. Roswitha graduated from Frankfurt American High School in 1960, where she was President of the German American Club. She and her mother, Martha Sonja Salmela relocated to San Antonio, Texas shortly thereafter. Rose worked for American State Bank in San Antonio and Gildameister’s Fine Jewelry Store. She prided herself on being an outstanding and dedicated employee who always exemplified a winning spirit. She was crowned Miss Ft. Sam Houston in 1961 and represented the military during the Fiesta events.
It was during this time that Roswitha met the love of her life, Captain Edward J. Taylor Jr., on a blind date. Their love blossomed into nearly 58 years of marriage. They married on July 11th, 1964, and it was at this time that she proudly took on the role of being a devoted and supportive military wife. Rose and Ed’s military career took them across the United States and beyond. Rose made every new home feel as warm and cozy as the previous one. She embraced every new community and neighborhood and was supportive of her two daughter’s involvement in their new surroundings.
Roswitha had a zest for life, loved her family, and all creatures of the world. Her creativity was always on display, with her cooking, gardening, crafting, decorating, hosting festive parties, baking, creating magnificent birthday cakes, and arranging family vacation adventures; Rose was truly extraordinary.
If you asked her what her greatest achievement was, she would say “her marriage to Ed and their two daughters.” Roswitha provided a loving bond with her girls, volunteering at every opportunity to be “home-room-mom,” or chaperon school field trips. She believed strongly that a mother’s involvement in her daughter’s life was paramount to forming a strong family foundation.
She was actively involved in the Military-Civilian Wives Club and Dustoff Wives group. She and Ed were active and founding members of St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church where they served on the Welcoming Committee and RCI sponsors. Her involvement in her Neighborhood Association was also a favorite of Rose’s.
Rose and Ed enjoyed vacationing and became frequent “Cruisers.” Their yearly travel adventures were extended to their daughters and their families. Skiing, beaching, sailing, relaxing, sandcastle building, and lounging on beautiful beaches are memories the family will cherish forever.
Roswitha will be remembered for her smile, her sincere interest in everyone she met, her love of animals, her fascination with nature, and her love for travel and adventure. Rose will forever leave a loving legacy to her family. She is preceded in death by her husband, Colonel Edward J. Taylor Jr., her Sister-In-Law, Donna Collins. She is survived by her loving daughters, Monica Jendrusch (Alan) and Jenine Beckel (Brad); grandchildren, Taylor and Lindsey Jendrusch, Nicole Jendrusch Bingham (Ryan), and great-granddaughter Blakely Rose Bingham, and Brandon and Clayton Beckel, and niece, Kimberly, and nephew, Michael.
Visitation
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
11:00 AM-12:00 PM
St. Francis of Assisi
4201 De Zavala Road
Mass
12:00 PM
St. Francis of Assisi
4201 De Zavala Road
Graveside Service
Tuesday, March 22, 2022
2:00 PM
Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery
If you wish to make a memorial contribution in Roswitha’s memory, please consider the Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation, P.O. Box 369, Kendalia, Texas 78027 or the charity of your choosing.