Fans and friends are mourning the loss of R&B sensation Ripley “Rose Taylor” Fairchild, who passed away on October 3, 2023, at the age of 56.
With a voice that touched souls and a persona that lit up any room she entered, Fairchild’s legacy will remain ingrained in the music industry and the hearts of her many fans.
Born on August 1, 1967, as Rose Taylor, the Monroe native began her journey to stardom early on, captivating church-goers with her powerful voice at the Seigle Community Baptist Church in West Monroe.
As recounted by her family, young Rose was a revelation the moment she began to sing.
Her talent was undeniable, catching the attention of renowned artist Stephanie Mills when she was just 15, after relocating to California with her mother. Ripley’s trajectory skyrocketed, sharing stages with legends like Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson. Notably, she gave an unforgettable performance at the Monroe Civic Center in 2016.
Affectionately known as the “Golden Child” by family and friends, Fairchild was a beacon of joy, known for her dazzling smile and sparkling eyes. Her journey was filled with not just accolades but genuine connections with everyone she met.
Denise Green, her elder sister, reminisced about the summers when a teenage Rose would spend time with her family in Kansas, effortlessly captivating church choirs with her voice. “Whenever she even walked to the mic, churches all over Kansas had heard about ‘The Golden Child’,” Denise recalls fondly.
Despite her meteoric rise to fame, performing for royalty and global audiences, Fairchild’s faith remained a dedicated believer; her relationship with God was paramount, guiding her through her illustrious career and life.
Visitation for Ripley Fairchild will be held from 3 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Friday, October 13, 2023, at the Greater Antioch Baptist Church, followed by her funeral services.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Elbert and Lena Taylor, as well as her siblings Betty Wiley and Edward Charles Taylor.
She leaves to cherish her memories 8 brothers: Elbert Taylor Jr., Johnny Taylor, Ray Evans, Michael Taylor, Derris Taylor, John Taylor, George Taylor, and Robert Andrews; 4 sisters: Denise Green, Lucinda Taylor, Debra Taylor, Evelyn Evans, and Lena Taylor. A host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
As the tributes pour in for this R&B legend, it’s evident that Ripley Fairchild’s legacy is much more than her music. It’s the lives she touched, the hearts she moved, and the memories she created.
Rest in peace, Golden Child.
