Douglas Reid Taylor

Douglas Reid Taylor, loving father, husband and friend to many, died peacefully in his sleep, on June 2,2022 in Raleigh. He was born in Kinston, NC on June 21,1927 to the late Reid Henry and Mattie Beasley Taylor.

Doug is preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Eleanor Deaver Taylor, his daughter, Barbara Lou and two brothers, Robert and Francis Taylor.

He is survived by his daughter, Hartsell Taylor and her partner, Edmund Ferrell; His sister, Jewel Rider, Nieces, Diane Stadiem (Hyman), Evelyn Mozingo (Gary) from Kinston, Joy Taylor Callahan (Jon) from Clayton, Judy Harris (John) from Augusta, GA, Sara Carter (DK) from Roanoke VA; and nephews, Reid Taylor from Kinston, Richard Heaton, from Augusta, GA.

Doug grew up on a tobacco farm in Lenoir County, an upbringing which instilled a lifelong love for the land and waters of Eastern NC. Lying about his age in 1944 he enlisted in the Navy during WWII to serve his country. After the war, he attended NC State University and remained a passionate Wolf Pack Fan who loved to follow the ACC games.

Doug worked 33 years for the State of North Carolina. In 1985 He retired as Chief of the Unemployment Tax department. He enjoyed his work and the people he worked with became friends.

Committed to his community Doug served as President, Lt.Governor and then distinguished Governor of the Optimist Club of Raleigh. His enthusiasm helped to create new clubs and he was part of the groundbreaking ceremony for the North Raleigh Optimist Park. He was a member of Oriental Baptist Church. He served as Master of his masonic lodge, Mount Vernon lodge #359 in Oriental, NC. He was a member of the Sudan Gators and enjoyed participating in 4th of July parades.

Blessed with a remarkable memory, he was a joker and great storyteller. He entertained everyone with his tales of family, fishing, golfing, his dog Toby and the people he met from all walks of life. He loved to read, especially Westerns. A man of many hats and interests, all that met him knew one thing, he was a really good guy. We will miss him.

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