Bobby Stephens Taylor, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, nephew, uncle, cousin, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Never meeting a stranger, Bobby leaves behind a legacy of living a life full of love and laughter.
Born on December 30, 1944, in Douglas, Georgia, Coffee County, Bobby was the only child of Ralph Taylor and Carolyn Jeanette (née Cannon) Taylor. His parents, who taught him to balance the hardships of life with gratitude and grit, predeceased him.
Bobby’s life was enriched by his love for his precious wife of 58 years, Evelyn Rebecca (née Gaines) Taylor. Their enduring marriage was a source of inspiration. Together, they navigated life’s joys and challenges. As a devoted father, Bobby instilled values of loyalty, responsibility, and humor in his four children: Bobby, Jr., Liz Keller (Todd), Chris Taylor (Valerie), and Debbie Rager (Darren). Bobby’s role as a grandfather brought immense joy to his life. He celebrated every milestone with parties, dinners, and trips to Disney. He loved to hear of their accomplishments and would acknowledge them with jokes about “one-upping” them on academic tests.
Wesley Taylor (Tifani), Lauren Stephens (Nate), Bethany Mullinax (Billy Joe), Seth Keller, Andrea Taylor, Joel Keller, Eleanor Rager, Sam Keller, Alison Taylor, Susanna Rager, Jack Rager, and Hope Taylor were recipients of his love, wisdom, and humor. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren: Presley, Gunnar, Tenley, and River, who will carry forward Bobby’s priorities of God, family, and country. Other surviving family members include a beloved aunt, sister-in-law, nieces, and cousins.
Bobby’s magnetic personality and ability to make personal connections with everyone he met is how he is remembered. His entertaining stories kept everyone chuckling. He was a true and generous friend; he was quick to help anyone in need. A career welder with 798 Pipeliners Union, he apprenticed his son Bobby, Jr. and grandson Wesley. Over the years, his influence brought other family members into this career path. When not working with Pipeliners, he ran a successful company from 1995-2010, finally retiring from work in 2016.
Bobby’s faith was an integral part of his identity. As a Christian, he walked the path of love, forgiveness, and grace. God comforted him and gave him solace. His family will gather to honor him at a graveside service in Douglas, Georgia on Friday, August 11, 2023. May they find comfort in the shared memories of his well-lived life, knowing their next reunion will be in heaven. Bobby’s first order of business in Heaven is, without a doubt, asking God the answers to all of his hard-hitting questions, including “If the hotel clerk gave back the $5 equally to the three, keeping $2 as tip, where is that other dollar?”
Graveside services will be held Friday, 2PM, Douglas City cemetery.
Sims Funeral Home in charge of funeral arrangements.