Tribute

Kathleen Hearn Taylor died peacefully on September 25, 2026 in Duncan, British Columbia. She was born in Springfield, Pennsylvania, on August 16, 1955, to Jim and Billie Tucker Hearn. The second of eight children, Kate was raised in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. Some of her happiest childhood memories were made with her family at the New Jersey Shore, where they spent summers enjoying the beach, boating, and fishing.

Kate attended Archbishop Prendergast High School and she went on to attend the University of Pennsylvania, earning a degree in Dental Hygiene. After working for several years, Kate returned to school and earned her bachelor’s degree at West Chester University before attending the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine.

In 1984, Kate met the love of her life, Alexander Taylor, and soon found herself swept away to his home on Prince Edward Island. They married and began a life together filled with love, laughter, family, and adventure. They raised two children, Brittany and David. In 1996, the family moved from Charlottetown, PEI, to Ottawa.

Kate was a devoted wife and mother, whose family was always at the center of her life. She had a generous spirit, a wonderful sense of humor, and a warmth that made people feel welcomed and loved. She was an avid gardener, reader, and crafter, and she had a particular love for animals. Her beloved pets over the years, including Pixie, Maggie, and Jackson, brought her endless companionship and delight. Kate found joy in the simple pleasures of everyday life and in the time she spent with the people she loved.

Kate and Alex were truly made for each other. They shared a love of vegetable gardening, snowshoeing, tennis, and travel, and delighted in the many adventures they shared together. Their travels took them to Jamaica, Costa Rica, and Eleuthera, among other places, creating memories that remained special throughout their life together. They also cherished the quieter moments at home and the everyday life they built side by side.

Following Alex’s death in 2021, Kate relocated to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, to be closer to her daughter.

Kate will be lovingly remembered by her children, Brittany and David, her siblings and extended family, and the many friends whose lives she touched with her kindness, humour, and warmth.

A Celebration of Life will be held in the Philadelphia region at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Kate’s memory may be made to the BC SPCA Vancouver Island Animal Behaviour Centre.
Donate online: https://bcspca.donorsupport.co/page/FUNEAALKMEQ
Cheques can be made out to BC SPCA and mailed to 7550 Bell McKinnon Road, Duncan, BC V9L 6B1.
For questions about making a donation, call 250-746-4646