Richard Earl Taylor, 77, of Cambria, went peacefully to be with his Savior on Wednesday, November 21, 2018, at the VA Community Living Center-Hospice Wing. He was surrounded by his wife and children. Richard was born on May 13, 1941, to Raymond and Freda (Smith) Taylor.
He married Charlene Gulley on June 17, 1961. For the past 57 years they shared a deep love for each other and the Lord. Richard honorably served our country in the United States Navy from 1960-1964.
He went on to own several service stations where he learned his trade as a mechanic. Later in life he worked at Southern Illinois University as a building service worker until he retired. He was a lifelong member and a deacon of DeSoto First Baptist Church.
While he and Charlene spent time at their home in Panama City Beach, Florida, they attended the Sunnyside Baptist Church of Panama City Beach and enjoyed the fellowship of the church family there. Richard is survived by his wife, Charlene; their three children, Myschelle (Rick) Burton of Cambria, Lisa (Mike) Heise of Carterville, Scott (Kelly) Taylor of Carterville; grandchildren, Danielle (Greg) Williams of Carterville, Savannah (Michael) James of Herrin, Chloe and Cole Taylor of Carterville, and Anna Marie Heise of Carterville; great-grandchildren, Justice, Cyrus and Sawyer Williams, and Miles James and future great-granddaughter, Sidalee James; sister, Ruth Ann (Bob) McDonald of Filmore, Illinois; many nieces and nephews and dear friends. Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Freda Taylor; brother, Jack Taylor; father and mother-in-law, Charley and Alma Gulley, and brother-in-law, Tommy Gulley.
Richard loved his family greatly and always made sure to show how proud he was of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His love for Charlene was immeasurable. In return he was a well loved man that will not only be missed by his family, but by the many lives he touched.
God was able to say “welcome my good and faithful servant” as Richard always strived to make sure that all he came into contact with knew the Lord. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, November 24, 2018, at DeSoto First Baptist Church, 301 N. Hickory Street, with Pastor Josh Wehrmeier officiating. Burial will be in DeSoto City Cemetery with military rites by the Carterville American Legion, Herrin V.F.W. and American Legion and Navy Honors Ritual Team.
Visitation will be from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the church. The family would like to thank the Marion VA and the VA Community Living Center for the respect and kindness they showed to their loved one and them during Richard’s stay.
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