Grady “Paul” Taylor, 70, son of Roy McKinley and Olela (Boatman) Taylor, was born June 7, 1944, in Selmer, Tenn. He passed away September 13, 2014, at his home in Bucyrus, Mo.
Paul married Marie Mars in Selmer, Tenn., on Nov. 24, 1987. They shared over 26 years together until her death Aug. 25, 2014. She was the love of his life and it was a great loss for him.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Marie; and one brother, Roy Taylor, Jr.
He is survived by one son, Jeff Taylor of Sacramento, Calif.; one granddaughter, Jessica Taylor of Sacramento, Calif.; four sisters, Jeneva Knouff, Janis Tate, Peggy Tucker and Carolyn Brigance; and several nieces and nephews.
Paul served in the United States Navy from July 18, 1961 until April 19, 1965 as an engine mechanic helper.
Paul worked as a mechanic for many years. He owned his own mechanic shop in Oregon for several years. He had a great love for restoring old cars and much of the time he was tinkering with a new old car to be restored. His love for cars carried over into car racing. He did some drag racing in his earlier days and enjoyed watching NASCAR races.
He and Marie had a dog breeding business, raising mostly Chihuahuas. He loved dogs and had many that were like family to him. He also liked to go fishing and just being outdoors.
Paul was a quiet, generous man ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors or strangers. He endeavored to get along with everyone, always thinking the best of those he met.
His quiet mannerisms and thoughtful ways will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Services were 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2014, at Evans Funeral Home. Pallbearers were David Goodman, Sam Fish, Brian Gatzert, Dale Miller, Jim Hall and Steve Crawford. Burial was in Hickory Ridge Cemetery with full military honors under the direction of Evans Funeral Home.
Memorials may be made to The Animal Shelter of Texas County. Online condolences may be made at www.evansfh.com.
PAID