Rutherford “Rudy” Theodore Taylor

Rutherford "Rudy" Theodore Taylor
Rutherford “Rudy” Theodore Taylor

Rutherford Theodore Taylor was born in Leesburg, Florida on January 14, 1933, and he lost his battle with COVID and went home to meet his Lord and Savior on August 22, 2020 at the age of 87.

Rudy grew up in Florida with his older brother, Grover Taylor, who just preceded him a few weeks ago. Rudy worked hard, and he jumped at the opportunity to join his friends to play football. He excelled at the sport earning the title of All State Little School as a lineman. Rudy was recruited to play football for Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College, and there he met and fell in love with Frances Erion Taylor, his wife of 52 years. Afterwards, he joined the army, and he became a clerk because they found out he could type. After serving in the army, he packed up his family and headed to Oklahoma State University where he obtained his degree in Mechanical Engineering. Fran and Rudy moved their family to Amarillo where he pursued a profession in engineering, and Rudy eventually retired from Pantex after a 34-year career. During these years, Fran and Rudy raised 5 children, whom they loved greatly, and they are survived by their daughter, Beverly Bailey and her husband, David; daughter, Brenda Taylor; daughter, Barbara Taylor Howard; daughter, Beth Taylor; and son, Paul Taylor and his wife Renà. From coast to coast, there are 13 grandchildren and 21 great grandchildren, who know they are loved but too numerous to list. Each cherish memories of snow skiing, fishing, eating watermelon, playing cards, spending holidays together, and listening to John Denver alongside their Papa Rudy. Fran and Rudy have left not only a lifetime of special memories but also a Godly legacy that will continue to impact generations to come.

Rudy’s story continued, and in 2009, he was blessed to marry Judy Williams. Rudy and family welcomed her 2 children, 7 grandchildren, and 6 great grandchildren into their lives and hearts. Judy and Rudy have spent the past 12 years spending time with their family and friends, two-step dancing, traveling across the world, active in their church and Bible Studies, and much more.

A few weeks ago, Rudy contracted Corona Virus. Over the past few weeks with Rudy in the ICU, there have been daily updates on his condition. This is the final update from Paul. “Dad had a really, good night. His body was completely healed, and his oxygen levels are higher than they have ever been. He got to walk with Jesus all night long. He was greeted by so many, and mom has been bossing him around heaven since his arrival. This will be my last report because he will never be sick nor feel any pain again. He is at the banquet table, and when Jesus welcomed him, He said, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

A special thank you to the BSA nurses and doctors in the MICU.

A celebration of Rudy’s life will be held on Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at Messiah’s House located at 6901 Bell Street. The family is requesting masks. Arrangements are by Boxwell Brothers Funeral Directors, Amarillo.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask donations go to Amarillo Children’s Home.

21 Replies to “Rutherford “Rudy” Theodore Taylor”

  1. Judy, I am so very sorry for your loss and in such a tragic, sad way. My heart goes out to you and yours and you are in my prayers. Peace be with you.

  2. Heart felt sympathy to the Taylor family. We have fond memories of the young neighborhood we shared with Rudy, Fran and family when we were all young and the kids were carefree children. I car pooled with Rudy and appreciated his good nature and friendly spirit. God bless all the family during this time of loss.

  3. With heartfelt sympathy in the loss of a husband, father,grandfather and a friend.
    May it give you peace knowing that God has taken him home.

  4. So hard to see you go, Uncle Rudy. I’ll treasure the memories of short visits and fun vacations. You were always so kind and a wonderful role model. I know you’re celebrating eternal life now in the glory you deserve. God bless and comfort you Cousins. His peace be with you Judy.
    John “Paul”

  5. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Taylor family at this time of sorrow. I hope you all find peace knowing he is in a better place, home with the lord. RIP

  6. Sending much love, prayers, hugs, and support your way! So glad to have been able to meet Rudy and glad you all had such a sweet person in your lives.

  7. To Paul Taylor and family, we know how much you all are hurting…we feel your pain…please know that you are in our prayers…let your dads memories always put smiles on your faces…

    Hugs, Bob and Faye Darby

  8. Dear Taylor Families,
    What a delightful blessing to have had Rudy on our earth for 87 years sharing his cheers, goodwill and gospel.
    His legacy is yours.
    Sending love and asking in prayer for your comfort and peace.
    Annette “ MiMi Darby” Smith
    & Andy Silver

  9. Our deepest condolences to the family. Velencia and I were blessed to be able to spend time with him here in the Charlotte area at the dinner event earlier this year. He is with our father now who will surely take care of him Paul. God Bless.

  10. Thank you , dear Rudy, for giving my good friend Judy, 12 wonderful years of happiness! May you keep dancing and traveling from Heaven!

    Much love to Judy and family,

    Janet and John Dissauer

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