Richard L. Taylor

WASHINGTON – Richard (Dick) Leavitt Taylor, 80, of Hyland Hill Road passed away on Saturday, July 28, 2018 at his home with his loving family at his bedside.

Born on January 3, 1938 in Malden, MA, he was the son of Howard and Wanda (Larson) Taylor. Richard graduated from Malden High School in 1956.

After graduation Dick felt compelled to serve his country. He was dedicated beyond the call of duty; serving and retiring after 23 years from the U.S. Marine Corps in 1978.   Gunnery Sgt. Taylor served as a Nuclear Biological and Chemical Warfare Instructor. Some of his tour of duties were in Germany, Texas, North and South Carolina, California, Okinawa and was a Vietnam Veteran of two tours.

On July 25, 1964 Dick married Janet West of Barre. After his retirement from the Marine Corps, he brought his family back to Barre. They later moved to Washington where they made their home since 1987.

After his military career, he worked as a custodian for the Barre City School System for thirty-three years, retiring in 2012.

Dick was a life-time member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Canadian Club of Barre, and the North American Hunting Club; as well as a member of the Friday Senior Bowling League and the Montpelier Cribbage League.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing, playing bingo and cribbage, and trips to Foxwoods Casino. Most of all, he treasured time spent at his camp with his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Survivors include his wife Janet and five children; his two sons, Lance and his wife, Tracy; and James and his significant other Vickie; his three daughters, Brenda Hegarty and her husband, Daniel; Barbara Taylor; and Bonnie Jo Taylor (a veteran of Desert Storm); ten grandchildren, Courtney, Isabel, Taylor, Kyle, Autum, Cameron, Ahna, Austin, Caitlin, and Ayden; two brothers, Donald and twin brother Ronald; and one sister, Doris; as well as several brothers-in-law; sisters-in-law; and nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by one brother, Robert and three sisters, Wanda, Jane, and Betty.

The graveside service to honor and celebrate his life with full military honors will be held on Friday, August 3, 2018 at 9:00 a.m. in the Vermont Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Randolph Center. Per his request, there are no calling hours.

Memorial contributions in honor of Richard may be made to the Barre City Middle School Athletic Fund, 50 Parkside Terrace, Barre, VT 05641.