Robert Benjamin Taylor IV, “Ben” to those who loved him, passed away on March 17, 2019. He was born on February 2nd, 1996, in Las Vegas, NV, to Dr. Robert B. Taylor III, and Teri Collins Taylor. From the moment he was born, he touched the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know him.
At 6 months of age, Ben was christened at the First Presbyterian Church in Okmulgee, OK, where his father was a member during his formative years. In September of 2005, he chose to accept Jesus as his Savior and was baptized at Canyon Ridge Christian Church.
Ben was the first baby born at Mountain View Hospital in Las Vegas, NV, and he loved to make this known whenever he passed the hospital on the highway. He attended Linda Rankin Givens Elementary, Sig Rogich Middle Schools, and graduating from Bishop Gorman High School in 2014 with a scholar diploma. While attending high school, he competed for 4 years in track and field and 2 years in football. Upon graduation, he attended his father’s alma mater, Southern Methodist University for his first semester, but soon after transferred to the University of Nevada at Reno where he would have received his Baccalaureate degree in finance this May 2019.
Early on, Ben displayed a natural ability for leadership and was known to send preschool classmates to “timeout” for misbehaving. He was selected to attend the Junior Youth National Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., and Boston, Massachusetts while in Middle School.
Although only 23 at the time of his death, he affected many in his short time on Earth. He was a kind and gentle soul. His heart was big, and he was never more than a phone call away for friends or family in need.
He loved the outdoors and seemed happiest hiking or skiing with friends and family. Passionate about music, he loved to attend concerts, mix music and play guitar. His happy place could also be found on the beach sitting around a campfire with friends. He loved to travel and definitely loved to look his best in a suit. Ben was a lifelong fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots, especially Tom Brady.
Ben was a wonderful big brother and best friend to his sisters, Rachel Nicole, Olivia Dale, and Hope Elizabeth Taylor.
Ben was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dr. Robert B Taylor Jr.; grandmother, Cami Wassilchenko; grandfather, Palmer Dale Hansen; uncles, Mark Harsen and Jeffrey Laust; aunt, Caryl Taylor Hanson; and cousin, Luke Harsen. In addition to his parents and sisters, he leaves behind in mourning stepmother, Amy Hansen Taylor; grandmother, Caryl V. Taylor; grandparents, Dan and Patty Collins; grandmother, Bonnie Hansen; aunts, Robin E. and Chrystal C. Taylor, Rachel Carroll, and Sandra Laust; uncles, Barry and Jeffrey Collins and Ted Hansen; Godfather, Dr. Johnnie Woodson; Godmother, Dr. Linda Stephens Woodson; and a host of extended family and friends.
Life without Ben will be terribly difficult, but we feel so blessed to have shared 23 years together. We know he is happy and at peace with his family that has gone before him. For encouragement, Ben wore a biblical verse on his wrist as he played football; “Be strong and courageous. Do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to: Keep Tahoe Blue www.donate.keeptahoeblue.org
