Frances Timmons Cooley, a 46-year-old realtor from Milton, Florida, tragically passed away on February 21, 2018, at Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida. Frances was a well-known and beloved member of her community, having worked as a realtor for D.R. Horton, serving families in the Milton and Pace areas. Her death was a significant loss to her family, friends, and the community she served.
The circumstances surrounding Frances Cooley's death were both tragic and criminal.
On February 12, 2018, Frances was shot multiple times in the torso. She was initially taken to West Florida Hospital by her live-in boyfriend, Gregory "Dallas" Taylor II, who left the hospital shortly after. Frances initially told hospital staff that she had been shot during a robbery. However, she later revealed to investigators that Taylor, her boyfriend, was the one who shot her. The couple was reportedly going through a breakup at the time of the incident. Despite undergoing surgery, Frances succumbed to her injuries nine days later.
Following her death, Gregory Taylor was indicted on charges of first-degree premeditated murder. An Escambia County grand jury brought these charges against him, and he was subsequently arrested. Taylor admitted to shooting Frances four times in the chest while they were driving on Olive Road in Pensacola. He claimed that the couple had been fighting frequently leading up to the shooting and were in the process of breaking up. Taylor's defense during the trial did not convince the jury, and he was found guilty of first-degree murder. He received a mandatory life sentence without the possibility of parole.
The case of Frances Timmons Cooley's murder highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and the tragic loss of a vibrant community member. Her family, friends, and the community continue to mourn her loss while remembering her as a loving mother, dedicated professional, and cherished friend.
