MSG - Clifford Arlen Taylor - Retired

MSG-Clifford Arlen Taylor-Retired, a beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and esteemed member of the community, passed away on June 17, 2025, in Richmond, Kentucky, at the age of 89. Born on October 29, 1935, in Hazard, Kentucky, Clifford lived a life marked by service, dedication, and a profound love for his family and friends.

Clifford was a proud United States Army Veteran, having served valiantly in the Vietnam War. His dedication to his country was matched only by his commitment to education, as he retired from a fulfilling career as a teacher within the San Antonio Independent School System and had recently attended the School of Traditional Bluegrass Music. His friendly, outgoing, and caring personality left a lasting impression on all who knew him—qualities that were further complemented by his love of music and various hobbies.

In addition to his military and educational achievements, Clifford was an avid amateur radio operator and enjoyed fast pitch softball, bowling, fishing, painting, and writing. He found joy in every activity and shared that joy with those around him.

Clifford's proudest accomplishments, however, resided in his family. He is survived by his loving son, Douglas Adrian Taylor and Sherry of Rockford, Illinois; son: Vernon Ova Taylor and Ann of Lavernia, Texas; daughter: Lydia Elaine Morgan of London, Kentucky and Davida Wooton and John Michael of London, Kentucky. He is also survived by his brother: Robert Dean Taylor of Hazard, Kentucky; sisters: Peggy Hacker and John of Stinnett, Kentucky, Sarah Jean Wells of Frankfort, Kentucky, and Shirley Diane Chambers and Roger of Tennessee. Clifford's grandchildren: Bethany Hope Smith and Michael, William Mitchell Morgan, Lindsay Brooke Taylor, Gracanne Morgan, Kaitlyn Rayshelle Patterson and Deven, Kelsey Arlena Bingham and Ethan, and David Michael Wooton; Great-grandchildren: Adelynn Smith, Arya Rayshelle Patterson, Greyson Ryker Bingham, Ramsey Faye Bingham, Reese Monroe Patterson, and Rowyn Blake Patterson carry on a legacy of love and laughter as well. A special friendship with Dean Osborne added richness to his life.

Clifford was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Alice Faye Baker Taylor, whose love and support were foundational to his life. He was also preceded in death by his parents: William Taylor and Nina Fletcher Taylor, along with siblings Linda Tabor, Vernon, and Roger Lynn, and his grandson, John Kristofer Taylor.

Services in honor of Clifford will take place at Walker Funeral Home located Hyden, Kentucky. Visitation will be held on June 20, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, followed by a funeral service the next day, June 21, 2025 at 1pm. 

Clifford Arlen Taylor's legacy of love, service, and compassion will continue to resonate through the lives he touched. His family and friends will carry forward the values he instilled and the memories they shared during his extraordinary life..

**Full military rites will be observed by Leslie County DAV Chapter #133**

Visitation: Friday, June 20, 2025 from 6pm to 9pm at the Dwayne Walker Funeral Home chapel

Funeral: Saturday, June 21, 2025 at 1pm at the Dwayne Walker Funeral Home 

Officiating Clergy: Rev. Eugene 'Friday' Roberts

Interment: Baker Cemetery - Stinnett, Kentucky 

Pallbearers: William Mitchell Morgan, David Michael Wooton, Jarred Ethan Bingham, Trenede Garrison, Nicholas Mak, John Michael Wooton, Heydrienne Whitehead, Gracanne Morgan, Greyson Bingham, and Lindsay Taylor.