Tanya G. Taylor

Tanya Genene Taylor, beloved mother, daughter, sister, aunt and "Gigi," passed away on May 3, 2026, in the arms of her family, surrounded by an outpouring of love and support. She was 66 years old.

She was born on March 31, 1960, to Sherry Belanger and Gorden Schramm in Flint, Michigan. From an early age, Tanya was known for her beauty, strength, resiliency and strong will — qualities that remained with her throughout her life. She lived life on her own terms, marching to the beat of her own drum with a spirited independence. She never cared to be confined by rules or expectations, and it was this free-spirited nature that made her truly one of a kind.

Tanya's family circle was small and deeply cherished. She is survived by her loving mother, Sherry Belanger, with whom she shared a close and special bond; her favorite daughter, Natasha Fowler; and her beloved grandson, Luke Stair, who was the greatest joy of her life and whom it deeply grieved her to leave behind. She also leaves behind her dear siblings, Rocky Schramm, Tina McElhaney and Cody Belanger, all of whom she loved very much.

Rocky never failed to call her every year at midnight on her birthday, a tradition that meant so much to her. Tanya shared a close relationship with her sister, Tina, especially during the years they lived near each other in Memphis, Tennessee. She also treasured the time she spent with Cody, particularly the summers he stayed with her while growing up.

Tanya was the fun aunt, treasuring time with all her nieces and nephews — Chance Schramm, Breeanna Riddle (her boys Zeke and Hank), Samantha Schramm, Taylor McElhaney and Jaxon Belanger. She played a vital and unforgettable role in the life of her niece, Taylor McElhaney. Tanya will be lovingly remembered for "Taylor Days," special times where the two would spend the day doing anything Taylor wanted. She later continued this tradition with her grandson, Luke, creating treasured memories filled with laughter, love and lots of Popsicles. Tanya truly embraced her role as "Gigi," finding happiness in spoiling her family and making every moment special. Her home was a place of laughter and fun, and she had a special way of making everyone feel wanted, welcomed and deeply loved. She loved to joke, make people laugh, play games (winning at any cost) and — true to herself — be right about everything!

Tanya worked hard throughout her life in many different roles. She earned her cosmetology degree and went on to have a career as a flight attendant for Northwest Airlines, which later became Delta Air Lines. She also dedicated herself as a caretaker for her family in Michigan and held various roles in service and cosmetics. Tanya was especially proud to support her co-workers at Oaklawn up until her diagnosis of cancer.

She loved to travel, cook a good meal (never following a recipe) and spend time on the lake — most of all relaxing in a floatie on any type of water. Growing up in Michigan, she was an accomplished water skier, earning numerous awards for her tricks and skill. Above everything, Tanya loved helping the people she cared about. She would give anything she had to make a loved one's life a little easier. She displayed her love through continual sacrifice for the betterment of others.

She was preceded in death by her father, Gorden Schramm; her stepfather, Dick Belanger; her special aunt, Elva Rinnert; and her beloved grandparents, Gene and Jean Coffel, who were a constant source of love and support in her life.

She leaves behind her lifelong friend, Cindy Sloan of Walnut Ridge, and her close friend, Cici Suezaki of Hot Springs, both of whom held a special place in her heart and gave her so much love and support.

Tanya fought her illness with unmatched courage and strength, showing a resilience that inspired everyone around her. Her spirit and love for her family never wavered. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the doctors at Genesis Cancer Center for their support, and to the staff of Hospice Home Care for the unmatched care, empathy and gentleness they provided.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on May 23, 2026, at Caruth-Hale Funeral Home, 155 Section Line Road in Hot Springs.

She will be missed beyond measure, but her love, her laughter and the beautiful traditions she created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Online condolences athttp://www.caruth-hale.com.