Mary Taylor "Tay" Fowler of Hampton, VA passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 21, 2021. Born in 1950, and a proud '68 Hampton Crabber, Tay was a life-long Hampton resident and made a heartfelt impact locally through applying her expertise in boating to her career with the City of Hampton, as a member of St. John's Parish Old Hampton, and through personally sharing her love for the water with many in the sailing community. Tay always presented herself impeccably, keeping a home that was open to all for laughter and comfort, her demeanor moving often between a soft and compassionate tone to a strong and commanding opinion. A fierce, proud, protective, unapologetic, and incredibly empathetic force, Tay ensured that those she loved knew they were loved in every way, unconditionally, and forever. Ever the "fashionista," Tay found importance in wearing, looking, and being her best for those around her. Time spent with her was special, never boring, and left you feeling loved and included. The greatest of her passions was her "superman" David- with whom she shared more than 32 years.

She is preceded in death by her father, Thomas Mercer Collier; mother, Elisabeth Irwin Collier, brother, Dr. Thomas Mercer Collier, Jr., father-in-law Bruce Fowler and several close friends.

She is survived by her husband David Ian Fowler; children Fletcher Parker Hayes, III, and Tolson Elisabeth Taylor; mother-in-law Anne Fowler; aunts Patricia Whiteside and Lorraine Irwin; cousin (sister) Rebecca Harvey; grandchildren Alexandra Winston (Ryan), Brian Matthew Smith Taylor, Jr., Cole Hayes, Fletcher Parker Hayes, IV and Nathaniel Hayes; great-granddaughter Charlotte; sisters-in-Law Nancy Fowler (Sue Murdock) and Mary Beth Collier; brothers-in-law Richard Fowler (Virginia Muñoz) and Robert Fowler.

Tay is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and cousins including Allison Carneiro da Silva (Carlos), Mark Harvey, Thomas Mercer Collier, III, Anna and Morgan Fowler and Michelle Fowler (Brandy); close friends Anthony August (Debbie) and John Barron (Michael, J.B.) August (Carolyn) and beloved West Highland Terrier MacLeod (whom she loved as family.)

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: the ASPCA or the Disabled American Veterans.

A virtual service by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home will be streamed via Facebook Live from the funeral home page at 6:00 PM Wednesday, Feb. 10, 2021 CLICK HERE. Due to COVID-19 concerns, this is a virtual service only ONLINE, no family or friends present at funeral home.