Bruce Taylor

83, of East Orleans, formerly of Natick, MA, died unexpectedly at home on November 6, 2014, with his loving wife of 42 years, Janet C. Taylor, at his side. Also survived by his son, D. Scott and his wife, Celeste, of Mendon, MA; his daughter, Susan and her husband, Tig Howard, of Sand Lake, NY; five granddaughters: Chelsea, Audrey, Elizabeth, Emily and Sally; and many friends and extended family members.

Born in Syracuse, a 1954 graduate of Syracuse University, he was also a loving husband to Sally Kehoe Taylor, who died in 1970. He spent his professional life with the YMCA in upstate New York and Greater Boston, dedicating himself to helping the less fortunate and ensuring that others had opportunities in life. He began his Y career as a street gang worker and retired as Vice President for Operations for the Greater Boston YMCA overseeing all branch operations and programs ranging from child care and camps to job training initiatives. He enjoyed working with teens in Youth in Government and leading trips to Latin America. After he retired, he continued to give back to the community, volunteering his time to many organizations, including Charlesbank Homes, providing affordable housing, and Hearth, Inc., serving homeless elders. He also served as a volunteer driver for Nauset FISH, which transports seniors to medical appointments. He was an avid gardener and skilled woodworker, never happier than when spending time in his workshop. He and Janet took great pleasure in hosting the annual neighborhood block party. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Hearth, Inc., at www.hearth-home.org or 1640 Washington St., Boston, MA 02118, or to the YMCA of Cape Cod, at www.ymcapecod.org or 2245 Route 132, West Barnstable, MA 02668. A celebration of his life will be held in the spring. He will be greatly missed.