Loy Delbert Taylor

Loy Delbert Taylor, was born on June 4th,1943 in Mesa, Arizona to Thomas and Sadie (Hill) Taylor. Delbert passed from this life on December 26th 2017, peacefully in his home in Oak Hills, California at the age of 74. Delbert is survived by his wife of 52 years, Sandra (Grafe), two daughters, Tammy Austin (Ed) of Hesperia, California; and Heather Earnhart (David) of Chicago, Illinois. Two brothers, Max Taylor of Silver City, New Mexico and Tony Taylor of Mesa, Arizona. Two sisters Elma McDonald of Azle,Texas and Dorcas Coffey of Mesa, Arizona. Four grandchildren Mikayla, Hannah, Ella and Nicholas. Three step-grandchildren Briana, Kate and Tyler. He is also survived by many other family members and friends and his brothers and sisters in Christ. Delbert grew up in Mesa, Arizona attending the public schools there. As a teenager he was employed during the summers by a local farmer/rancher where he worked in the cotton and melon fields as well as the cattle pens. Delbert was introduced to the Lord through the influence of a Christian family across the canal from his home. He was later baptized and became an active member of the congregation and youth group at the Mesa Church of Christ where he met Sandra Grafe who would become his wife. Delbert and Sandra were married on June 19th,1965 in Mesa, Arizona. In 1968 they moved to Dallas, Texas for Delbert to attend the Preston Road School of preaching. While in school he served as youth Minister for the Garden Oaks Church of Christ in Dallas, Texas and upon graduation the elders of that congregation asked him to go to Tillamook, Oregon where they supported him in that mission field as he preached the gospel. During his ministry of over 44 years Delbert served his Lord and congregations in Texas, Oregon, Arizona and California. His last work before retirement in June 2015 was with the Hi-Desert Church of Christ in Apple Valley, California where he preached for 20 years and served as one of the elders. Delbert was a faithful Christian his whole life and a sound gospel preacher. He was a kind and loving husband, father, Papa and Pa. He lived his life as an encourager: one who looked for positive words to say, kindnesses to show and prayers to be prayed. A Memorial service is scheduled for Saturday January 6th, 10:30 AM at The Hi-Desert Church of Christ, 22332 Eyota Road, Apple Valley, California. (760) 247-5817. Remembrances may be made in the form desired by friends. Flowers are welcome and contributions may be made to The City of Children or The Marfan Foundation.