Taylor Layne Owens Averette passed away August 8, 2026 at the age of 34. She was born December 3, 1991 to the late Terry Owens and Melissa "Josie" Hadaway Corey.

She was preceded in death by her step-father, David Corey; grandmother, Joan Taylor Sims; grandfather, James L. Hadaway, Jr. and James Sims.

Her radiant smile and infectious laugh had a remarkable way of brightening every room she entered.

She graduated from John T. Morgan Academy in 2010 and later became a Registered Nurse after attending Wallace Community College. Taylor’s true passions were found in the things she loved: music, which lifted her spirit; drawing, where she let her creativity shine; and cheering on Auburn Football with unmatched enthusiasm. She cherished her time by the sea in Panama City Beach, soaking up sun and memories along the shore.

Taylor possessed an unwavering kindness and a caring, selfless soul. These qualities led her to her calling as a Registered Nurse. Through her work at Vaughn Regional Medical Center and Park Place Nursing Home, as well as her endeavors as a travel nurse, Taylor cared deeply for her patients, offering not just her medical skills but her heart. To countless people, she was a source of comfort and strength, always willing to go above and beyond to serve others.

Taylor embodied warmth, joy, and generosity. Her beautiful smile could light up hearts, and her ability to listen and offer solace made her a beloved friend and confidant to many. She leaves a legacy not just of caring for others, but of inspiring joy in the everyday moments of life.

Above all, she loved her children deeply and treasured every moment spent with them. Following the loss of their mother, she also lovingly cared for her sister, Mary Grace, offering her steadfast support, guidance and devotion.

She is survived by her husband, Darryl Chad Averette; children, James Cameron Averette and Aubrie Layne Averette and her siblings, Sarah (Dylan) Smith, William Corey (Shelby Fogleman) and Mary Grace Corey.

Funeral services will be Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 11:30 a.m. in the chapel of Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home with Jason Potvin officiating. Interment will follow at Pineview Memory Gardens in Valley Grande. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the funeral home in Selma, prior to the service.

Pallbearers will be William Corey, Dalton Anthony, Toby Waites, Will Pitts, Kaleb Smith and Dylan Smith.