He was born January 6, 1936 in Waukegan, IL to William L. and Violet (Hart) L. Taylor, who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death in 2005 was his wife of 44 years, Leajeanne (Tull) Taylor. His brother Keith Larkin Taylor, an infant brother, Carey Ray Taylor a grandson, Ryan O’Shea and a nephew Andrew Taylor also preceded him in death.
In June of 2007, he married Mona Greenwood Scarlette. They were blessed with many years together. She survives.
Also surviving are sons Greg Lawley of Austin, TX and Scott Taylor of Hilton Head Island, SC, and daughters Debbie O’Shea (Mike) of Helotis, TX, Julie Tones of Bluffton, SC, Dana Sheffield of Keystone Heights, FL, Ginger Taylor (Jeff Jones) and Alesia Taylor Crisman (Bruce Crisman) of Portland, OR, Sara Taylor of Springfield and step-son Kenny Scarlette (Tracy) of Springfield, his grandchildren: Kelly O’Shea Ortiz (Craig) Zachary Lawley of TX, Drew Taylor (Madeline) of WA, Stefan Sheffield of MO, Shannara Taylor of Springfield, Ezra Sheffield of FL, Joe Tones and Nic Tones of SC, Jessica Tones of MA, Addison and Sterling Scarlette of Springfield, great granddaughters, Lillian O’Shea and Harper Ortiz of TX. He has a niece and two nephews.
Bill was a 56 year member of West Side Christian Church in Springfield. He served and loved the Lord Jesus and His people. During his life he was involved in many areas of Christian service. He retired in 1997 with the sale of Rail Splitters Lincoln-Mercury, he believed God owned and let him manage it. He was active in the Illinois Auto Dealers Association and Springfield New Car Dealers Association.
During his life he served his community. Bill loved his family and enjoyed it when they could get together. He often said ”That being a Christ Follower was the greatest privilege this side of heaven” and, “Prayer is not something you just do, It is something you live”.
Arrangements are in the care of Bisch Funeral Home West 2931 S. Koke Mill Rd. Springfield, where the family will receive friends Friday, January 21, 2022 from 4:00-7:00 pm and where a funeral service will be held at 10:00 am Saturday, January 22, 2022 with Eddie Lowen officiating. Burial will follow in Glenwood Cemetery, Shelbyville, IL at 1:00 pm Saturday with Cindy Lash officiating. CDC guidelines will be followed requiring face coverings and social distancing.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may direct memorial contributions to West Side Christian Church 2850 Cider Mill Lane Springfield, IL 62702 or a charity of choice.
Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischfuneralhomewest.com where tributes and condolences may be left for the family.
Bisch Funeral Home West. 217-544-5424
