Ulysses Roy Taylor, Jr. was born on February 8, 1929 in Kansas City, Missouri, to Roy and Beulah Taylor. His friends knew him as “Terry”; his daughters called him “Dad” and his grandchildren lovingly referred to him as “Big T”.
He and his sister, Beverly, grew up surrounded by the music of their father’s stringed instruments and mother’s piano playing. Music brought the family and extended family together over holidays and Sunday dinners. Three generations could often be heard singing in four-part-harmony…hymns, Christmas carols and barbershop tunes filled the air in the family living room.
Terry was an avid reader with an insatiable appetite for history, geography, war trivia and handguns. He loved telling stories and reading spy novels. Terry was a talented poet, often composing limericks for birthdays and special occasions. He enjoyed music of all types, especially 60s, 70s and 80s hit songs. Terry approached all his interests with fervor, including his love of tennis, golf, gardening and chocolate. Big T was a big presence wherever he went, known for his charm, quick wit and sassiness.
While Terry was in college, he met the love of his life Anna Marie McAlister. They married in Kansas City and eventually had three daughters, Cherie, Shelly, and Wendy. After relocations to St. Louis and Tampa, Terry and Anna settled in Richmond, Virginia, where they remained for many years.
Wife Anna, father Ulysses Roy Taylor, mother Beulah Taylor and sister Beverly have predeceased Terry. He is survived by his daughters Cherie Ann Hawk (Eldon), Terri Michelle “Shelly” Beard (Richard) and Dr. Wendy Taylor Ellis (Edward II); grandchildren Jason Taylor Clements (Debbie), Laurie O’Keefe (Mike), Erin Cave, Erica Mogannam (Maher), Richard Taylor Beard, Elisa Anne Johnson (Scott), Edward Haskins IV, Luke Ellis, Edward “Trip” Ellis III (Lynn) and Matthew Ellis (Kandise); and 14 great grandchildren.
A private burial will take place in Denver, Colorado on Thursday, July 26.
The family will remember and celebrate the life of Ulysses Roy Taylor, Jr…aka Terry, Dad and Big T…at a separate family gathering in Denver.
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