Taylor Lane Anderson 1986 - 2011

We are deeply saddened by the death of Taylor Anderson. She was a remarkable young lady, dedicated to her dream of working with Japanese students, and delighted with the adventures that living in Japan presented. She will be sorely missed.

Taylor graduated from Millwood in June of 2000. She had received the Humanitarian Award in June of 1998 as a sixth grade student here at Millwood. The Humanitarian Award is presented to a middle school student who is devoted to the welfare of all human beings. Taylor graduated from St. Catherine's School in 2004, and graduated from Randolph-Macon College in 2008. This was her third year teaching in Ishinomaki, Japan.

Her parents, Andy and Jeanne Anderson, and her brother and sister, Jeffrey and Julz, were an integral part of the Millwood family for many years and helped us "grow into" our current campus. Jake and Sam Wiiliams, also Millwood graduates, were her cousins. Her aunt and uncle, Wendy and Marc Williams, have kept us apprised to developments as authorities searched for Taylor.

St Catherine's School has established the Taylor Anderson ’04 Memorial Gift Fund. All money raised will be given in Taylor’s memory to benefit the relief efforts in Japan, the country she loved so dearly. St. Catherine’s will work with the Anderson family to direct the funds in the way that best honors Taylor’s legacy. Our hope is to help with the rebuilding of the schools in the region where Taylor taught.

CNN reported that Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell released a statement, offering his support for Taylor's family and friends. He said Taylor is the first American reported to have been killed in the natural disasters.

"Fittingly, she was last seen helping parents safely reunite with their children following the earthquake, an act which illustrates her dedication to her students and to the Japanese people she served," McDonnell said. "Our thoughts and prayers remain with Taylor's family and friends during this difficult time.