APACHE JUNCTION, AZ – Ray Alvin Taylor (9/22/1944 – 11/30/2021) passed away at the age of 77, in Apache Junction, Arizona. Where he lived his final years near his sons and grandsons.
His battles with copd, cancer, pneumonia and covid showed his courage in facing challenges with a determination to live life to the fullest no matter what challenges he faced. Despite the health challenges, Ray stayed strong willed and family oriented until the end. When it seemed his life was over and he was ready to be with his Lord, his sons asked him to hold on for 4 more days so that his sons, grandsons and their wives could each have time to visit with him – he agreed and against the odds, Ray was able to hold on all the way to the 5th day.
As a child, Ray was one of 15 children growing up in the Kansas countryside. In 1967, he joined the Army and served the United States of America earning multiple commendations including; Purple Heart Awards, 2 Overseas Service Bar Awards, Army Good Conduct Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Army Commendation Medal for acts of heroism, and the Army Expert Marksmanship Badge M-14.
He was a hero to those he fought alongside in Vietnam and we as a family celebrated his heroism and remain proud of his service to our great country. Through life, Ray also worked at the US Postal Service, owned and operated a cattle ranch, and a tackle and bait house. He was a hard-working entrepreneur at heart. He also devoted his time and efforts to helping with the International Pain Foundation over his last 10 years. Ray took great delight in helping family, friends, and those in need over the years. Many saw him as a supportive, strong, loving man.
Ray found great joy in hunting, fishing, raising cattle, and farm life. From his farm in Kansas, his time at his lake home in the Ozarks, and his time, here in AZ, boating, hunting and fishing, enjoying activities with his sons and grandsons was when he was most fulfilled. He enjoyed hosting parties and events at his home here in Arizona, spending his day connecting and helping others in his community.
Preceded in death by Stub and Erva Taylor as well as 11 siblings. Survived by Ray are his two children, Bryan K. Taylor and Ken R. Taylor, who were the most valuable connections in his life. He also was the grandfather to 2 boys, Dylan and Dayne. Father-in-law to Bryan’s wife Nicole and Ken’s wife Barby. He also left behind 3 siblings; Ralph, Bud, and Wanda. And, many other family (he has a large extended family) and friends who love him dearly.
The capstone of his life was that he held to faith in Christ in his final days and left this life with hope in the next.
A celebration of life is being planned in Kansas for 2022. Ray will be entombed in Arlington National Cemetery as his final resting place in late 2022. Once dates, times and locations are available Bryan and Ken will make announcements and notify family, friends and all who would like to attend.
