Richard William Taylor

Born in 1941, Richard and his family lived in Florida, where he attended Baldwin High School. In 1960, he enlisted in the Army, embarking on a 20-year military career that took him all around the country and the world, including Korea, Thailand, France, and Vietnam. Richard was a combat medic who received two Bronze Star Medals, one for Meritorious Achievement in Ground Operations Against Hostile Forces, and one for Heroism in Ground Combat.

Upon retirement in 1980, Richard followed God’s direction to attend seminary, graduating from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1984. Richard had a deep knowledge of theology and church history, and had a love for teaching.

Of all the adventures, Richard’s greatest was his 56-year marriage to his beloved wife, Sybil. While serving in Vietnam, he proposed to her by sending her an engagement ring and a recording of Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” in the mail. Their greatest joy was adopting and raising their son, Jeffrey David Taylor.

Always ready to ask—or answer—a quiz question, Richard loved Jeopardy (and trivia in general), baseball, sausage and gravy, books, and all things sweet. Richard’s life was a living testimony of his belief in Jesus Christ. He was a devoted and loyal child of God, husband, father, uncle, mentor, and friend.

Richard is survived by his beloved son, Jeff (Kristi); grandson, Luke; and granddaughter, Abbie. He is predeceased by his wife, Sybil Taylor; his mother, Madge Pedrick Taylor; his father, LeRoy Taylor; and his brother, James Taylor.

A funeral service will be held Tuesday, March 12, at 9:30 a.m. at Sovereign Grace Family Church, located at 13773 N. Main Street with Pastor Keith Foskey officiating. A graveside service will immediately follow at 11:30 at Jacksonville National Cemetery (4083 Lannie Road). Cars must be lined up by 11 a.m.