Ronald Ray Taylor, known lovingly to family and friends as “Ron” of Vancleave, Mississippi, passed away peacefully at his home on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the age of 78.

Ron was born on August 7, 1947, in Olney, Illinois. He was preceded in death by his father, Donald R. Taylor; his mother, Lida K. Taylor; and his brother, Randy L. Taylor.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years, Christy G. Taylor; his daughter, Michelle and her husband Jeff Howell; his son, Tim and Carrie Taylor; his sisters, Donna and her husband Mark Brown and Mary and her husband, Mike Frazier; his grandchildren, Suzanne Brann, Shannon Cooper, Emma Smith, and Grace Taylor; his aunt, Carol Negley (Dick); his uncle, Tom Rodgers (Carolyn); and many other cherished family members and friends.

Ron was a proud Illinois native who lived in Olney, Manteno, Champaign-Urbana, and Springfield. He graduated from Manteno High School on May 28, 1965. He continued his education at Parkland College, earning an Associate of Science degree on May 25, 1975, and later graduated from the University of Illinois on May 5, 1981, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational and Practical Arts Education.

Ron answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army in February 1966. He graduated from Officer Candidate School in January 1967 and completed Army Flight School in January 1970. He served honorably in Vietnam from April 9, 1970, to April 9, 1971, and was later stationed at Fort Bragg in 1973 before receiving an honorable discharge in August 1973.

Following his active military service, Ron continued serving both his state and nation. He joined the Illinois Army National Guard in 1974 and served with distinction throughout his military career, including activation during Operation Desert Storm. As a full-time pilot with the Illinois National Guard and the State of Illinois, Ron dedicated approximately 35 years to aviation service. Throughout his military career, he excelled in every assignment entrusted to him, earning numerous awards and honors.

In addition to his military service, Ron served his community as a police officer with the Urbana Police Department from 1975 until 1986.

Outside of his professional life, Ron was an enthusiastic University of Illinois sports fan and a lifelong supporter of the Chicago Cubs. He found great joy in fishing, running, and playing baseball. Above all, his faith was the foundation of his life. As a devoted member of the Church of Christ, Ron faithfully served as a Bible teacher, deacon, elder, and minister. His steadfast faith was evident in both his words and his actions, and his family rests assured knowing he is now in God's loving hands.

Ron will be remembered for his unwavering faith, dedicated service to his country and community, love for his family, and commitment to helping others. His legacy of integrity, leadership, and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew and loved him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Patriot Guard Riders, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), or the Ocean Springs Church of Christ

A procession from The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd., in West Jackson County will leave promptly at 10:15 a.m. on August 14, 2026, for a graveside service with full U. S. Army Military Honors being presented at the 11:00 a.m. burial in Biloxi National Cemetery.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, 13872 Lemoyne Blvd., in West Jackson County is honored to serve the Taylor family. Share memories and condolences at www.riemannfamily.com