Ralph M. Taylor Jr., 66, of Willis, TX, passed away on Friday, December 2, 2011 at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Ralph was born December 21, 1944 in Heights Hospital in Houston. His parents were Dr. Ralph M. Taylor and Verna Lynn (Roy) Taylor. Ralph graduated from Waltrip High School in Houston in 1963 and attended Stephen F. Austin University.
Ralph was a salesman most of his life. He had an infectious smile, a warm laugh and a big heart. And even in the worst of times, he never complained. He is often described as a kind and gentle soul with an independent spirit. He loved his family, his friends and University of Texas football. You would usually find Ralph in front of the T.V. watching the Astros, Rockets, and Texans, UT or any number of teams. He loved to talk about sports and knew his stats. We will all miss him very much.
The family would like to thank all of those who helped Ralph through the difficult last year of his life as he bravely fought his cancer. We especially want to thank family friend and neighbor of Ralph’s, Bobby Baker, who spent many hours taking Ralph to doctor appointments, treatments, hospital and on errands and just hanging out with him. The family is so grateful that Ralph had a friend like Bobby. And special thanks to Bill and Becky Taylor who encouraged Ralph and stayed close to him during this difficult last year and all of the other extended family members who gave their support. And thanks to the caring doctors and nurses at the VA hospital for the wonderful care that Ralph received and their kindness to our family.
Ralph is survived by son, Trey Alexander; daughters Kimberly Taylor and Shawna Matherne and husband Robbie Matherne and sister, Jenny Taylor Williams and husband Paul Paske Sr., 7 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Diane Taylor Manderscheid and his great nephew Brandon Robbins.
A Graveside Service with military honors will be presented at 2:30 PM on Wed., Dec. 7th at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive. Pall bearers will be friends Bob Sutton, Bobby Baker and Cousins Jimmy Taylor, Mike Taylor, Andy Taylor and Bill Taylor III.
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