- May 2, 2024
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Mike and Beverly Taylor, parents of Michelle
Photos by Brian McMillan
Toni Whitt, one of the "band moms" who organized the memorial, embraces Beverly Taylor, mother of Michelle.
Dr. Earl Johnson, principal of Matanzas High School
Austin Sherman, brother of Liz; Liz was injured in the crash.
Michelle Taylor made others feel better when she walked in the room. She braided one friend’s hair every day at band camp to keep her cool. She ate late at night at Stake n’ Shake with another friend. She helped inspire another to do well in school. The 16-year-old was honored March 6 by dozens of fellow members of the Matanzas High School band in a memorial near the spot where she was struck and killed by a car on March 2, on Lakeview Drive.
Band members rode in buses to the dark spot on the road, which was blocked off by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and illuminated with flood lights, north of Matanzas Woods Parkway. They shared their memories of Michelle and mourned together.
One friend, Michaela Sipes, said, “We may not have been in a blood-related family, but we were connected.” She added, “When I graduate, I shall have her in my thoughts with me so she can graduate too.”
Toni Whitt, one of the “band moms,” helped organize the memorial. She told the mourners, “Just like the notes on the music you play, they lean on each other.” She added: “Make the best of who you are and what we are.”
Also in attendance was Austin Sherman, brother of 21-year-old Liz Sherman. Liz was seriously injured in the March 2 crash and had surgery on March 6.
Michelle’s parents, Mike and Beverly Taylor, also thanked the group for supporting them and for loving their daughter.
Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Juan Schembri led the group in prayer, and Matanzas Principal Dr. Earl Johnson admitted that the tragedy had tested his faith.
But, Johnson said as he pointed to the crowd of Michelle’s peers holding candles, “Look around and see the lives that Michelle has touched.” He said to the mourners, “I love you. Let's stick together during this tough time.”
