John Richard "Rick" Taylor

John Richard "Rick" Taylor of Wye Mountain died Friday, at the age of 64, surrounded by his loving family. Born Dec. 24, 1947, as a believer in Christ, he went to be with the Lord Aug. 31, 2012. Richard is survived by his loving wife of 20 years, Janice Taylor; children, Jason Taylor, Jared (Alisha) Taylor, Julianna (Mark) Hickok, Matthew (Angie) Holmes and Jessica (Eric) Willis; grandchildren, Sydney Hickok, Emma Hickok, Jason Willis, Justine Willis, Amber Taylor, Connor Willis, Brooklynn Willis and Hudson Taylor. He is also survived by three sisters, Mary (Paul) Gyrki-kiss, of Durham, N.C., Joy (George) Rasche, of Fayette, Mo., and Karen (Tom) Burger of Fort Smith, Ark. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Leon E. Taylor Jr., Charles A. Taylor and Donald G. Taylor, and his parents, Leon Edwin and Mildred Ernestine Taylor. He also leaves behind his companions Choo-Choo, Hootie and CoCo. Richard was a 1965 graduate of Fort Smith Northside High School. He matriculated at University of Arkansas, Fayetteville in 1970 with both a Bachelor of Arts and Architecture degree. He was affiliated for most of his career with the Blass Firm, ending his career with the Wilcox Group. Richard grew up knowing the unconditional love of his parents and siblings. This is the same kind of love Richard showed his family as they succeeded, as they failed, as they disappointed, and as they made him proud, he loved them. His battle with cancer, four years, 10 months, was one of example and reward to all. Now, his hurt and pains are over, but the love he had for those around him lives on in memories. Richard always had a project going even during his illness. Whether it be cars, tractors or boating on the lakes, he sought enjoyment in his family and in his tinkering. The family will receive friends from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 4, 2012, at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home Chapel, (501)224-8300. Funeral services will be held 10 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 5, 2012, at the funeral home. Online guestbook: www.rollerfuneralhomes.com/chenal.