Paul Gerald Taylor was born February 26, 1929, in Davenport to Barney and Edith (Smith) Taylor.  He passed away April 20, 2025, in Tulsa at the age of ninety-six.

Paul was a proud World War II Veteran having served as a Radio Operator.  He boasted about having traveled both under and over the Golden Gate Bridge.  Paul was a drummer since he was in the fourth grade, giving him a love of music.  He later became a band director for 17 years followed by serving as an elementary principal for 26 years.

Paul enjoyed traveling having gone to the highest and lowest points in the United States in addition to the four-corners.  The First Baptist Church of Davenport was Paul’s church home where he served the Lord as Choir Director for many years.  He had a great sense of humor, even professionally clowning, making people laugh joyfully.  Most of all, he loved his family compassionately.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Barney and Edith Taylor; wife of 66 years, Patricia (Wartman) Taylor; siblings, Teddy Taylor, Helen DePriest, Bobby Taylor, Eugene Taylor; and a grandson, Eston Taylor.  Survivors include his children, T.J. Taylor and wife Vanda of Texas, A.J. Taylor and wife Cinde of Arizona, Nancy Walters and husband Rocky of Georgia, Scott Taylor of Texas; sister, Pat Tibbs of Oregan; (11) grandchildren, Jeremy, Crissy, Andy, Chris, Taryn, Owen, Maranatha, Seth, Jordan, Gabriella, Olivia; countless great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; other family and friends.

A funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, April 26, 2025, at the First Baptist Church of Davenport with interment following in the Davenport Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the direction of Lehman Funeral Home of Wellston.