GETTYSBURG, Pennsylvania — Family members, friends, students, and the Gettysburg community are mourning the loss of Taylor (Rudisill) Balderas, who passed away on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, following a courageous battle with cancer. She was 33.
Born on August 1, 1992, in Gettysburg, Taylor was the cherished daughter of Randy and Kim Rudisill of Orrtanna and the beloved wife of Chase D. Balderas of Arendtsville. Together, they built a loving family and were devoted parents to their two daughters, Parker and Hadlee, who were the center of Taylor’s life.
A graduate of Gettysburg High School, Taylor continued her education at Shippensburg University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She went on to serve as a dedicated educator in the Conewago Valley School District, earning the admiration of colleagues, students, and parents for her compassion, patience, and commitment to helping every child succeed. Those who knew her remember her as a teacher who fostered both learning and confidence in her classroom.
Outside of her career, Taylor treasured time with her family and her beloved dog, Moose. She was known for her warm personality, quick wit, and exceptional storytelling ability. During her cancer journey, she embraced art as a source of comfort and healing, using her creativity to inspire those around her while facing her illness with remarkable strength and resilience.
In addition to her husband, daughters, and parents, Taylor is survived by her sister, Rachel Hertzog, of Bendersville, along with numerous extended family members, friends, coworkers, former students, and members of the community whose lives she positively influenced.
A memorial service celebrating Taylor’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Gettysburg, followed by a celebration of life with family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made to Keystone Pet Enhanced Therapy Services (KPETS) in honor of the comfort and encouragement Taylor received through therapy dog visits during her treatment.
Taylor Balderas will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, compassionate teacher, talented artist, and courageous woman whose kindness, creativity, and unwavering love for others left an enduring impact. Her legacy will continue through the countless students she inspired, the family she cherished, and the many lives she touched.
Disclaimer: This obituary is based on information provided by the family and publicly available sources. Funeral and memorial details are subject to change if updated by the family. Information in this article is intended for general informational purposes, and additional verified details may become available over time.