Jack D. Taylor Sr, 87, US Army, LTC (Ret) passed away into God’s eternal kingdom on April 9, 2021. Jack was born in Linneus, Missouri on January 9, 1934 to parents Ruth (nee Lay) and Zac Taylor. He was their only child. He was married to his loving wife of 56 years, Nancy (nee McRoy) until her passing on January 6, 2011.
Jack grew up in Linneus, Missouri working on the family farm and playing youth sports. He excelled in academics and went to Kemper Military School in Boonville, Missouri his last two years of high school and first two years of college. He had a stellar four years at Kemper, graduating with honors and as the Commanding Officer of the cadets. Jack went onto Purdue University to complete his undergraduate studies.
After graduating, Jack and Nancy were married and had four children: Jack D. Jr. (deceased 12/21/20), Debra, Jim and David (Cindy).
He was commissioned into the US Army as a 1st Lieutenant in 1957. He was wounded on the field of battle on May 5, 1965, receiving the Purple Heart. After a 14-month stay at Fitzsimmons Army Hospital, he attended the US Army Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Upon graduating, he stayed on as an instructor in the Finance Department. Jack then returned to Vietnam for one year serving as the Assistant Comptroller. Upon his return, he spent three more years at Fort Leavenworth as the Comptroller. It was his favorite base during his career, calling it a great place to raise a family and only 2 ½ hours from his hometown of Linneus.
He retired from the military in 1977, and along with the family moved to Las Vegas where he resided for the remainder of his life.
He went back to college at UNLV and received his MBA. A 20-year career at Nevada Power followed. At the same time, he took over as President of the family farm corporation in Missouri. After retiring, he and his wife enjoyed traveling the world and spending time in Mazatlán, Mexico. Socializing with family and friends was always a big part of Jack and Nancy’s life. He especially enjoyed taking friends to Lawry’s during the Christmas season.
Jack was a parishioner at Christ Church Episcopal for 44 years serving in several positions.
The military was a big part of his life even after retirement. He was an active member of TROAA and MOAA until his passing. He served two terms as President and held several other positions.
Services will be held on Monday, May 24 at 11:00am at the Christ Church Episcopal, 2000 Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV, with interment on Tuesday, May 25 at 9:20am at the Boulder City Veterans Cemetery in Boulder City, NV.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18