Karla Taylor

Karla Fermanich Taylor peacefully passed away at home on May 26, 2025, and went to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, at the age of 84. Born in Mauston, Wisconsin, Karla was the daughter of the late Carl V. and Leone A. Fermanich. She is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, Dennis Taylor of Marietta, Georgia; their children, Tracy and Kevin Bannon, Brian Taylor, and Terri Taylor and Gregg Ludlam; grandchildren, Kyle and Ellie Bannon, Konner Bannon, and Kaelyn Bannon; great-grandchildren, Emily and Layla Bannon; and her beloved grand-dog, Coco Chanel. She is also survived by her brother, Nick Fermanich; Dennis’s sister, Sherree Hemby; their spouses; and many cherished nieces and nephews. Karla graduated from Marietta High School and went on to attend Lynchburg College, earning a degree in Education, and it was there she met Dennis. They settled in Marietta, Georgia, where they raised their three children. Karla taught 2nd and 3rd grade at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Marietta for 26 years, specializing in reading. She was a passionate and dedicated educator who often said, “If you were in my class, you left knowing something.” A vibrant part of the Marietta community, Karla was involved in countless activities: she volunteered as head costume designer for the Georgia Ballet Company, helped with Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, participated in Marietta High School alumni events, and later served as a docent for the Sacred Art of Russia exhibit at the Cobb Galleria. Karla and Dennis were long-time members of the Blackwell Squares square-dancing club and enjoyed an adventurous life together — from sailing and camping to traveling the world. Karla had a zest for life: she loved gardening, sewing, playing the piano, and always had fast-paced music playing. She encouraged her family to play music and shared her love for lively things — especially her red Oldsmobile Delta 88 with the loud horn, which she drove proudly. She cherished her book club ladies and the joy they shared reading new books together each month — always finding laughter, insight, and connection through their stories. Karla never met a stranger. She welcomed everyone into her home with warmth and joy and will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and faith. Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 5, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Southern Cremations & Funerals, Marietta, GA. A Rosary will be said at 5:00 with Deacon Bruce Reed. Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Friday, June 6, 2025, at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Marietta, GA, followed by burial at Southern Cremations & Funerals. In lieu of flowers, Karla requested that donations be made in support of her autistic grandson’s respite-care. Contributions may be sent to:Dennis Taylor1646 Oakford Ct.Marietta, GA 30064(Please make checks payable to Dennis Taylor) Karla was loved by so many and will be deeply missed. Southern Cremations & Funerals at Cheatham Hill Memorial Park (770-919-7100) is honored to assist the Taylor family in their time of bereavement.