theage.com.au/news/world/crusader-for-east-timor-dies-aged-92

The Age

Crusader for East Timor dies aged 92

Miki Perkins

March 18, 2007

MAVIS TAYLOR, the woman who in her 80s was made a national living treasure for her humanitarian efforts to help East Timor, died in hospital early yesterday morning in her home town of Yarrawonga.

Her son, Bruce Taylor, said the end had been peaceful for Mrs Taylor, 92. "She had this love which went beyond her immediate family and friends, it was a love which went out the door, down the street and even overseas ­ it was a love for humanity," Mr Taylor said.

Mrs Taylor (left) was a former haberdasher whose one-woman crusade inspired people to send household goods to war-ravaged East Timor after independence.

She led a quiet country life until in 1999 she saw a report on television that set her on a different course. She set up shipping containers in her backyard to be filled with donated goods and sent a total of 21 containers to East Timor.

Mrs Taylor is survived by eight children, many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and one great, great, great grandchild. Her funeral will be held on Wednesday.