Jean Marie (Drevdahl) Taylor

Jean Marie Taylor began her journey in Manistique, Michigan, March 18, 1932, daughter to Lauritz Drevdahl and Melba (Davidson) Drevdahl. She was raised in Manistique and attend Michigan State University where she graduated in 1954. While in school, Jean was a proud member of Phi Beta Phi Sorority, Kappa Delta Phi Honorary, Phi Kappa Phi Honorary and Delta Gamma Mu Honorary. 1954 was quite a memorable year for Jean. Not only did she graduate from MSU, but she also married the love of her life, John McCann Taylor. She returned to Western Michigan University where she received her master's degree in 1974. Jean spent her career devoted to elementary education. Initially, she worked for four years in Ann Arbor, then 25 years with the Paw Paw Public School System, retiring in 1992. 

Jean was preceded in death by her husband, John, March 24, 1988. She was an active member at the First Presbyterian Church in Paw Paw where she served as schoolteacher, elder and deacon of the church. She was a proud member of many organizations including, The Michigan Education Association, National Education Association, and the AAUW (Association of University Women). 

On July 16, 1992, in Maui, Hawaii, Jean was united in marriage to her second husband, James Dutcher. The couple enjoyed living between Paw Paw at their home on Maple Lake as well Maui, Hawaii, for many years. James passed away July 15, 2019. 

Jean shared a wonderful life with her family and friends. One of the greatest thrills in life was being a grandmother to her precious grandchildren. Family gatherings were another highlight, she took great pride in doing the cooking and baking. She also loved to dance, watch U of M football and write poetry. Her career as a schoolteacher brought Jean great satisfaction as she was able to watch her students grow and develop. 

Jean passed away April 20, 2023, peacefully in her sleep, at her home in Paw Paw. 

She is survived by her daughter, Tameron (Dan) Hulst of Paw Paw, son, John Scott (Lisa) Taylor of Angola, IN, seven grandchildren, Nicole Marie Taylor, Kylie Catherine Olson, Brooke Danielle Taylor, Benjamin Taylor Hulst, Jessica Swick, Kerry Ort and Hollie Hulst, along with eight great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her first husband, John Taylor, second husband, James Dutcher, grandson, Joshua Thomas Taylor, and her sister, Georgie (Stanley) Taylor.

Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Paw Paw.

Jean requested her body be donated to the University of Michigan. There will be no public services held. 

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