WAYNESVILLE — Raymond Eugene “Gene” Taylor, 72, of Waynesville, passed away on Friday, December 22, 2023, after courageously battling cancer for the second time.

He was born on March 2, 1951, the son of Barbara Jean Price.  He married Kathleen Born on May 15, 1976, and they celebrated 47 years of marriage together. 

He is survived by his wife, Kathy; his daughter, Kileen Taylor, Olympia, Wash.; his son, Scott (Darla) Taylor, Columbia, Mo.; two step-grandchildren, Grant and Zach Wilt; twin grandchildren, Adam and Alice Taylor; brother-in-law, Terry Renfrow; and sister-in-law, Barb Taylor.  He was preceded in death by his mother, Barbara Jean Taylor; brother, George Taylor, and sister, Carla Renfrow.

He graduated from McLean/Waynesville/Armington High School in 1969 and worked for Wallace Computer Services for 36 years before retiring in 2006.  He served in the U.S. Army from 1971 to 1972, and was stationed in Vietnam.  He was a member of the Waynesville American Legion for 52 years.

He enjoyed jogging and participated in 5Ks, triathlons and marathons when he was younger.  He also enjoyed motorcycles, reading and watching a variety of shows on TV.  He especially enjoyed college basketball and any shows about bowhunting.  He also enjoyed listening to ‘60s music.  His main passion was bowhunting.

He will be remembered for his great sense of humor, quick wit and positive attitude.  He loved to make people smile and told many entertaining stories.  He was a caring person with friends and family and never met a stranger.  His fun-loving personality will live on forever in our hearts.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, December 30, 2023, from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Waynesville United Methodist Church followed by the service at the church with the Rev. Deepak Holkar officiating.   

Burial with full military rites will follow at Evergreen Cemetery Waynesville.  A funeral dinner at the church will follow.  Calvert Funeral Home, Clinton, is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be directed to the Waynesville American Legion or Waynesville United Methodist Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.calvertmemorial.com