Edward W. Taylor

Edward W. Taylor, 86, of Springfield, passed away at 6:15 p.m. on Wednesday, November 21, 2018 at Heritage Health. Edward was born December 31, 1931 in Sangamon County at Bates near New Berlin, IL, the son of Evan F. and Frances Wilcox Taylor. Ed had the honor to raise his family in the home in which he was born. The home still stands. Ed married Phyllis Taylor on June 7, 1974 at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Springfield, IL. He was a lifetime cattle man and farmer. After Ed and Phyllis were married, they moved their farming operation to North West Missouri where a large cattle operation was established for over 25 years. Edward attended Iowa State University. He proudly served in the United States Army during the Korean War. He was a former president and board member on the New Berlin School Board. He was also a member on the Sangamon County Farm Bereau, Illinois Beef Federation, Bates Presbyterian Church and Westminster Presbyterian Church where he served as deacon. He enjoyed traveling, reading, spending time with family, and especially gardening. During their 44-year marriage, they planted a tree each year to celebrate their wedding anniversaries. Pasture was set aside upon which over 75 additional trees were planted. He was preceded in death by his parents; three children, Charles Richard Ryan, Linda Elizabeth Ryan, and Leslie Anne Ryan; sister, Ruth J. Roberts; and one grandchild, Matthew. He is survived by his wife, Phyllis (Hall) Taylor of Springfield; seven children, Mikel Evan (Selma) Taylor of Charlotte, NC, Debra Vaughn of Trenton, IL, Karen Sue (Marion) Coffman of Glendale, AZ, Brent (Diana) Taylor of Wichita, KS, Nathan (Cindy) Taylor of Phoenix, AZ, Laura (Joe III) Rieger of Springfield, and William "Grant" Ryan-Taylor of Groton, CT; 19 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center. Private family ceremonies will be held. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimers Association, Greater Illinois Chapter, 2309 W. White Oaks Drive, Suite E, Springfield, IL 62704. Edward was deeply loved and respected by all his family. The family will like to give thanks to Mill Creek Alzheimers Care, Memorial Hospital and Heritage Hospice of Springfield as well as the staff and residents of Hickory Glenn Independent Living.