Bennie H. Taylor

Ben Taylor, 88, of Fort Worth, passed away peacefully at his home in Fort Worth on July 10, 2023. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Born on October 7, 1934, in Fort Worth, Texas, Bennie Hale Taylor was the son of John Edward Taylor and Lela Mae Cullum Taylor. He grew up in Fort Worth and developed a strong work ethic from an early age after his father passed away when Ben was only 12 years old. Upon completing his education, Ben enlisted in the Navy and served on the USS Pine Island. After the Navy, Ben launched his professional career in the optical industry and opened his own optical shop in 1981. Ben Taylor Optical, now under the ownership of his son, Paul Taylor, has been serving the Fort Worth community for more than 42 years. Ben Taylor was a leader in the industry until his retirement in 2010.

Throughout his life, Ben was known for his kindness, generosity, humor, and unwavering commitment to his family. He was a devoted husband to his beloved wife, Barbara, for 53 years, until her death in 2012. Their love story served as an inspiration to all who knew them, and Ben stayed vigilant, by her side, throughout her lengthy battle with dementia.

As a father, Ben was a constant source of support and guidance to his son Paul, and his two stepdaughters, Pam and Paula. He cherished every moment spent with his grandchildren, Rachel and Rainey; his great-grandchildren, Brendon, Kaydence, Fallon, and his new “bonus” granddaughter, Brooke Miller. Ben was preceded in death by his oldest grandchild, Kristin Haleigh Stowe, who passed away on May 21, 2020.

Ben was a devoted fan of TCU football and enjoyed following the Aledo Bearcat Football Team and their many State championships. After Barbara passed away, Ben found comfort in having lunch with his son each week at various places around Fort Worth, including The Paris Coffee Shop, The Lunchbox, and West Side Café, where everyone knew his name and enjoyed his company.

The memory of Ben will forever be cherished by his family and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and unforgettable moments. His gentle spirit and warm smile will be deeply missed.

A Visitation for Bennie will be held Monday, July 17, 2023 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Shannon Rose Hill Funeral Chapel & Cemetery, 7301 East Lancaster, Fort Worth, TX 76112, followed by a Graveside Service at 10:00AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to The Aledo Education Foundation Teacher Crisis Fund in Ben Taylor’s name. You can find a link to the Teacher Crisis Fund at https://www.aledoef.org/give.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.shannonrosehill.com for the Taylor family.