In loving memory of

Paul James Taylor
January 23, 1939 - June 1, 2014

Paul Taylor, 75, of McKinney, Texas passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2014 with his family by his side after a lengthily battle with prostate cancer. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, 2014 at the Hastings United Methodist Church with Pastor Denise Stevens officiating. Inurnment will be at the Farm Creek Cemetery east of Henderson with military rites. Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Friday June 13th at the Loess Hills Funeral and Cremation Center in Malvern.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donations to Prostate Cancer Foundation (1250 Forth Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401 or https://donate.cancer.org) or Samaritan Inn (1710 N McDonald St, McKinney, TX 75071 or http://www.thesamaritaninn.org/SupportTheInn/DonateNow)

Paul James Taylor son of John and Darlene (Edmondson) Taylor was born January 23, 1939 in Henderson, IA. He received his education from Hastings Schools graduating in 1957. On July 31, 1958 he enlisted in the U.S. Army with the Airborne Division. Paul married Lana Lovejoy on July 20, 1962 at the Presbyterian Church in Red Oak, IA. The couple was blessed with four children; Shelley, Sheila, Chad, and Jennifer. In 1999 Paul retired from Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad after a 38 year a career. In 2003 the couple moved from Hastings to McKinney, TX.

Paul enjoyed spending time with family. The highlight of his summers was attending the Taylor family reunions in Hermitage, MO and vacationing at the Lake of the Ozarks and camping with his family and friends. He also kept busy by attending Nishna Valley sporting events, gardening, and driving the back-roads in his old jeep.

After retirement, Paul started bicycling on the Wabash Trace. The one thing he did love about the cold Iowa winters was napping with his cat Alex & dog Dinky. He enjoyed making many trips to Texas to see his grandchildren and support them in their academic and athletic endeavors. Paul also became a subject matter expert on how to win at a game of free cell. After moving to Texas, he & his wife spent many days at his kids lake houses boating, fishing, and trying to get up on water skis again. They also loved driving across the U.S. to see friends and relatives.

Paul had two favorite quotes ... When asked how he was doing, he'd respond with 'Today is the best day of my life, I just don't know how it could get any better, thank-you for asking,' and when asked if the story he had just told was an accurate reflection of the events, he'd respond with 'I never let the truth get in the way of a good story.'

Paul is survived by his wife of 51 years, Lana Lovejoy Taylor; children, Shelley Vaughn of Emerson, IA, Sheila Taylor Frink & Randy, Chad Taylor, and Jennifer Taylor Muncrief & Jim all of McKinney, TX; grandchildren, Ashlee Vaughn of Hastings, IA, Kade Frink of Houston, TX, Justina Vaughn Reeves & Denny of Glenwood, IA, Kole Frink of Plano, TX, Kaylyn Frink Millard & Ryan of Frisco, TX, Drew Taylor of San Marcos, TX, and Reid Taylor of McKinney, TX; brother, Danny Taylor & Mickey of Broken Arrow, OK; nephews/nieces Danny Paul Taylor of Hastings, IA, Danielle Taylor Devine & Tom of Princeton, NJ, Jimmy John Taylor of Hastings, IA, Troy Taylor of Tremonton, UT, Jason Lovejoy & Dana of Corvallis, OR, Jill Lovejoy & John of Woodland Park, CO; aunt Carol Jean Moulds & Art of Webster City, IA; sister- in- law Nancy Taylor of Lincoln, NE, brother- in -law Bob Lovejoy of Divide, CO, Goddaughter Jaylee Meyer, and many cousins.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; infant grandson, Zachary James-Taylor Frink; brother, Darrell Edward Taylor; and sister- in-law, Darlene Marie Judah Taylor.

Tributes

Jeanne (Ord) Welton wrote on Jun 14, 2014:

"Many condolences to you and your family Lana. I remember such fun, crazy times so many, many years ago. How many times did we hit the road for Hastings and Omaha too? You were so fortunate to have shared such a full and loving life with such a great guy. May God give you strength during this difficult time. "

Kattie Parker Lewis Family wrote on Jun 14, 2014:

"So many memories have flooded back of Paul.....our growing up around your family. Good times, good memories. Sporting events, the jeep on the backroads, Pepsi, snickers, a beer. I was thinking about the man, the father, the husband that Paul has been to all of you...that we observed and that he shared a portion with us too. I think each of us may have married or are dating a guy like Paul. One that keeps us grounded, loves us deeply, truly, and makes us laugh and keeps us focused on the good things in life. Paul and I shared the difficult task of jury duty and that was a pivotal moment for both of us....it bonded us too. More things happened in that week of jury duty than either of us could put into words....even today. I think that's why we chewed on it so long. He was a great mentor. A man that I loved and I'm thankful that your family had enough love to share him with so many of us. God Bless You All while you grieve this beautiful man. "A tear drops in the ocean....when I find it....that's when I will stop missing you." ~Anonymous "

S. Elaine wrote on Jun 13, 2014:

"Lana and family, Words cannot express the pain that I know is felt over your loss. I am so sorry and send my deepest condolences. Lean on family and friends for support and look to God's Word, the Bible, for comfort, peace and strength. At Isaiah 41:10 God gives us the assurance; "Do not be afraid, for I am with you. Do not gaze about, for I am your God. I will fortify you. I will really help you. I will really keep fast hold of you with my right hand of righteousness." Take comfort. You are not alone. Galatians 1:3; John 5:25,26; Revelation 21:3,4. "

Carla Crawford-Lawrence wrote on Jun 11, 2014:

"Growing up in Hastings and spending so much time at the Taylor house, I have many treasured memories of Paul. He was always a joy to be around. So sorry for your loss. My heartfelt sympathy to you all. "

Janet Carley wrote on Jun 10, 2014:

"Lana, Sheila, Shelley, Chad, Jennifer and families... I was so sorry to hear of Paul's passing. I too remember him from growing up in Hastings. He was always nice to me and yes...he always had a smile. I know how hard it is to watch someone you love go through cancer. But I also know the peace you feel when they pass that they no longer have to endure the pain and suffering. Paul is at peace with our Lord looking down from Heaven smiling as he always did!! I'm unable to make it to the service but please know I'm thinking about you all and are lifting you up in prayer! Love to all!!"

jill lovejoy (neice) wrote on Jun 8, 2014:

"I have lots of memorys of my uncle paul, one i wont forget is riding in that old jeep of his down to tx with no doors and going really fast down interstates and highways, i was always scared i was going to fall out. But he always took care of me and made sure i was safe. Lana and paul also came to colorado and made a special trip to see me and my fiancee john in colorado springs,it was nice to spend time with paul and lana and they got to meet john for the first time. I also enjoyed when i was young taking naps with paul on the couch. In hastings. Paul was a great person with a big heart. I will miss him very very much. Love u paul!!!!!!!!!!! Love, jill lovejoy and john connolly"

chelle campbell wrote on Jun 6, 2014:

"We will miss you Paul! Thank you for all you have done for us! Especia being a terrific Godfather to Jaylee! We love you! Chelle, Noah , Gracee and Jaylee"

Bambi wrote on Jun 6, 2014:

"Lana and family, I am so sorry to hear of Paul's passing. May all the support you receive in the days to come help you find comfort."

Elaine Burrington Barns wrote on Jun 6, 2014:

"Growing up in Hastings I remember Paul as always having a smile on his face or a joke to tell. He was such a nice guy! I hope you find comfort in knowing he is now at rest and no longer in pain."

Jan Fisher wrote on Jun 6, 2014:

"Lana and family, I am sorry for your loss. It is never easy, but my prayer is that God will give you comfort at this time and peace in the future. You are in our prayers. Your friendship with Shirley was so awesome and I am sure she is smiling and greeting Paul as he joins her and so many others. Love and Prayers, Lana."

Connie Hall Moore wrote on Jun 5, 2014:

"I remember Paul since I was a child. He always had a nice smile. I worked with Lana for years and kept up on the family. Sorry for your loss"

Sherri Nissen wrote on Jun 5, 2014:

"Thoughts and prayers to all. May you find peace and comfort with family and friends. God Bless you! Sherri Bowen-Nissen Prescott, IA"

Sandra Campbell wrote on Jun 5, 2014:

"I will miss my friend...I will miss his visits to Iowa and our phone conversations. He never ceased to make me smile, and his outlook on life was an inspiration. Good night Paul, Rest in Peace."

Joyce Kemerling wrote on Jun 4, 2014:

"Paul or the Taylors had a green ford 1949 or close and the drivers door was off! Don't know why but I remember seeing Paul driving it in Hastings that way. lol Nice guy and will be missed:)"