Dr. Amie Lee Taylor

Dr. Amie Lee Brooks Taylor was born in East St. Louis, Illinois. She was one of fifteen children (12 survived into adulthood) born to the union of Viola Freeman Brooks and Howard Herman Brooks. She was preceded in death by both parents and 10 of her siblings. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband of 21 years, Col. Kenneth Taylor and her step-daughter, Debra Kwaczala.

Amie was educated in the public schools of East St. Louis and won a baton twirling scholarship to Central State University of Wilberforce, Ohio. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Central State University, Master of Education Degree from Miami University, Master of Science in Education from the University of Dayton, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Miami University. Amie was very much influenced by her older sisters’ love of education. Amie was a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She was a physical education teacher, assistant high school principal, director of curriculum and instruction, assistant superintendent, licensed professional clinical counselor, and a tenured professor in the department of Counselor Education and Human Services at the University of Dayton. She was awarded professor emeritus at the University of Dayton. She served on many boards and received numerous awards throughout her career as an educator, including her selection as one of the Ten Top Women in Miami Valley in 1978 and UD School of Education Teacher of the Year for 1989-90. 

Amie was raised in the Shiloh AME Church and later converted to the Roman Catholic Church, with her late husband and love of her life, Kenneth Taylor. Amie and Ken shared the love of travel, home and furniture shopping, and spending time with family. No one was prouder of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren than Amie! Her greatest joy was when all the family could gather at her home. She was generous with her time and resources, donating to many charities or just helping those in need. Amie continued to write and teach, and left her family with a wonderful ancestry book, entitled, “Memories of Viola Freeman Brooks: Mother’s Journey.”

Amie departed this life on July 10, 2024. She leaves to cherish her memory, her daughters, Bridget (Steven) Shirley, Shelly (John) Finn, and Lorna Revere; her sister Patricia (Leverse) Brooks; four (4) grandchildren Jordan (Amber) Finn, Devin (Joseph) Hanson, Tanner (Danielle) Finn, and Eric (Ashley) Shirley; two step grandchildren Jordona Taylor and Jessica (Kerry Crouch) Kwaczala and 6 great grandchildren, 3 step great grandchildren a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 26, 2024 from 9:30 am - 11:00 with a formal service beginning at 11:00 am at Newcomer Funeral Home (3940 Kettering Blvd., Kettering, Ohio 45439).

Due to travel restrictions, the family kindly asks that any memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association in lieu of flowers.