Ronald Keith Taylor
Join us in celebrating Ronald—please share your stories and photos, and help spread the word about this page!
Ronald Keith Taylor, age 72, of Wilson, NC died on April 30, 2022 at Duke/Raleigh Hospital in Raleigh, NC. Born in Durham, NC on July 16, 1949, he was the son of Benjamin Eugene Taylor and Zoda Howard Taylor.
"Ron" graduated from high school in Anniston, Alabama. He also graduated from Atlantic Christian College in Wilson, NC (known as Barton College) with a BS in Music Education, and from East Carolina University in Greenville, NC with a Master's degree in Administration. He was an educator in the Nash County schools for over 30 years; teaching elementary music and middle and high school chorus. He was named "Nash County Teacher of the Year" in his seventh year of teaching. He also served as a Computer Resource Specialist; teaching teachers how to train students to use computers. In addition, he served as a school administrator at various times.
Ron served as a church musician, author, actor, and comedian. He was one of the original founders of The Raleigh Men's Group, a member of the Wilson Writers Group, and was a church lay leader in the United Methodist Church for over 10 years. He also served, in the past, as the music director of the Nash County Civic Chorus. He was the author of the book "The Day Buttercup Played Hooky at the Circus" and was writing a second book when he died. Ron presented a Mark Twain presentation and was in the tour planning process when he passed away. He played organ and piano and directed church choirs for over 50 years. His family remains grateful for the many hours he spent researching and creating the family genealogy which resulted in a book that is of tremendous value to the family to this day. Ron also presented comedy presentations to various churches throughout NC. He participated in the Wilson Boykin Center Community Theater in various plays, including the lead role in "Death of a Salesman."
Ron adored his wife, Patricia. They were married 47 years. They chose not to have children of their own. Instead, they cherished thousands of children in their teaching careers. Ron's family, his church families, many friends, students and fur babies were very near and dear to his heart. He had a sharp wit and was known for it. He loved life and said that his life was "nothing short of a blessing." His love language was helping others so it was no surprise when he decided to donate his body to the Duke Medical School to help aid in medical research. His ashes will be scattered in Duke Forest at a later time.
Ron was preceded in death by his parents and various fur babies.
Surviving are his wife, Patricia, his fur baby, Gizmo, his brother Howard (and Howard's wife Deb), as well as many beloved cousins and friends.
A Memorial Service will be held at Elm City UMC in Elm City, NC on Saturday, May 14, 2022 at 11am with the Reverend Barry Drum officiating. Visitation will be held for a brief time after the service. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Lung Association or to Elm City United Methodist Church in Elm City, NC.