Legacy Village at Park Regency resident Mary Jo Wheeler Taylor was born on December 27, 1942, in Moultrie, Georgia, to Dillye Murphy Wheeler and Joseph W. Wheeler. From the very start, Mary Jo was a small spark of energy—so much so that the neighborhood kids quickly dubbed her “Peanut,” a nickname that stuck. To her family, she’s also known as Mama and Nana, titles she wears with pride and warmth.

Growing up in Moultrie, Mary Jo’s days were filled with simple joys: riding bikes with friends, “racing on her toes,” and gatherings that drew aunts, uncles, and cousins close. One of her fondest memories is a birthday celebration that her parents made extra special. Since her birthday was just two days before Christmas and often lost in holiday bustle, her mama and daddy let her pick a different day to celebrate. Mary Jo chose Halloween, and that year, she had a costume party for all her friends and family—a memory she still treasures.

Faith was woven into Mary Jo’s childhood, and it’s been a guiding thread ever since. She was active at First Baptist Church, where she took part in GA’s (Girls in Action), Acteens, and the Women’s Missionary Union (WMU). Tuesdays often found her gathering with friends for prayer groups. Today, she continues her spiritual journey with the community at Legacy Village of Park Regency, her faith as strong and steady as ever.

Family is at the very core of Mary Jo’s heart. She raised two daughters she considers her greatest accomplishment: JoBeth Hunnicutt (Plenn) and Stacy Griffin (John). Over the years, her family grew to include four beloved grandchildren—Wheeler Hunnicutt (Alexis), JW Griffin, Kilby Hunnicutt, and Sophia Griffin. Now, she’s excitedly awaiting her first great-grandchild, a baby girl due on June 3rd. Holidays at Mary Jo’s have always been a big deal. She goes all out for Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving, and years ago started a family tradition that’s now a favorite: the pineapple turkey. Crafted from construction paper, each feather is a place for someone to write what they’re thankful for—a ritual that brings everyone together in gratitude.

Mary Jo devoted 42 years to teaching, and her impact reached far beyond the classroom walls. “I genuinely loved my students and even though I was probably the shortest teacher around, I did not back down and they respected me,” she says with a smile. “I always showed everyone respect, no matter what their background.” Twice honored as Teacher of the Year, she also led the CCHS Student Council. But what she treasures most are the relationships—with students and coworkers alike—that lasted long after the school day ended.

Her love for family is matched only by her enthusiasm for supporting them. Whether it was a baseball game, gymnastics meet, or golf tournament, Mary Jo could always be found front and center, cheering on her grandchildren with boundless energy. She never missed an event, and her brownies became legendary among sports teams—each batch a little slice of her generous spirit.

Mary Jo often says that her biggest blessing is seeing her daughters, their spouses, and her grandchildren all growing into good people who love Jesus and others the way she does. Knowing that her family shares her faith and her values, and that they will all spend eternity together, fills her with peace and gratitude.



These days, Mary Jo still greets each morning with a sense of adventure. She loves playing cards, never shies away from a good game of Bingo, and is always up for joining in the many activities at Legacy VIllage. Her joyful spirit, deep faith, and open heart make her a treasured friend and neighbor—someone you’re proud to know, and even prouder to call family.