Billye Ruth Whatley Taylor

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Billye Ruth Whatley Taylor on September 15, 2024, in Salt Lake City, Utah, at the age of 86. Billye was born on August 20, 1938, in Petersburg, Hale County, Texas to Alma Frances (Atkinson) Whatley and Bill Whatley. 

Ruth was a very loving woman with a big heart she cared for anyone in need and shared her home if needed. She loved to dance and sing, and was very supportive of others in their goals, whether it was art, music, school, and more. She was always there to support you in any way she could. She loved her family and lived a life full of love for others. She was a great mom and peacemaker presence in all our lives and will never be forgotten. 

Ruth was a faithful and dedicated employee for American Distribution Center starting in January 1983. In October of 2008, they became Kenco Logistics Services. She retired after 25 years of exemplary service. She was an active and dedicated member of the Timpanogos Temple #483 Elks Lodge. A graduate from South High School in Salt Lake City, Utah. When she moved back to Texas, she attended and graduated from Madam C.J. Walkers Beauty College in Dallas. 

Ruth loved to crochet, crossword puzzles and word search puzzles. But most of all she loved when Cousin Brend would swing by the house and say, “Lets ride” and off they went. They were Ride and Die Cousins. Oh! Let’s not forget the stop at the gas station on Redwood Road to get that fried pork chop and a potato log. 

Mom was a great singer who had an opportunity to sing in Canada professionally. She turned it down to raise her children. Ruth had a love of dance, she took ballet, tap, and Hawaiian hula, which she loved the best and taught me. She loved good music and dancing at the Elks Club and any party. Her signature move holding one or both hands in the air pointing one finger waving it back and forth jamming away to the beat. 

Ruth is survived by her daughter Cathy Mason-Copeland, son Anthony L. Mason, Sr. Cousin Brenda Marshall, and Tommy Carter. Her grandchildren Anthony Lee Mason, Jr, Quincy A. Mason-Copeland, Tai Joshua Mason, Àmani Ruth Mason. Nephew Christopher T. Whatley, Antoinette Brown, and Anthony E. Brown. And a host of nieces and nephews. 

She is preceded in death by her mother, Alma Frances (Atkinson)Whatley, Father, Bill Whatley, brothers Terry and Teddy Whatley, and daughter-in-law Ja’nelle Josette Mason. 

A viewing will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Unity Baptist Church, 1170 West 1000 North, Salt Lake City, Utah. A funeral service will follow from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 

A special thanks to Cousin Jason Smith (Triplet). You were my God-sent right on time. You were patient and caring and always made Mom laugh. Thank you! A big shout out to the IHC Homecare Hospice Team, the nursing staff, home aides, social workers, and the chaplain. 

The family would also like to thank all of our family and friends who blessed us with monetary donations for our mother. Your kindness will never be forgotten. Those who fed me some great food. Our great neighbors of 50 years Bonnie & Little Emery Skuppin and Family, David & Sandra Hollins of 30 plus years. We have always taken care of each other on this block! Felecia Wright Thayer my new middle sister you kept me and mom company many nights into the early morning hours, and you always brought us some good food. Cheryl Christy you are my “Ride and Die” always there, love you! Anthony Mason Jr and Quincy Copeland I never would have made it without you and God!