Carl Ray Taylor

Carl Ray Taylor, 81 of Palmer passed away on Monday, August 8, 2016 at 12:30 p.m. at Life’s Journey Senior Living in Taylorville. He was born on December 6, 1934 in Brownstown, IL the Son of Leroy “Jack” and Arvilla (Holman) Taylor. He married Shirley Stanley Dohse on February 2, 1973 in Palmer. He worked at Caterpillar Tractor Company in Decatur for 35 years. Carl was the Mayor of Palmer for 12 years, an active member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows fraternity for 34 years and served as an EMT. He was a fan and driver of stock car racing, enjoyed bull riding, fishing, traveling and all wildlife but especially hummingbird and eagle watching. He dedicated many hours to community service helping with the food pantry, the DARE program and many others. Being a country music fan made buying Johnny Cash a drink at Tootsies Orchid Lounge after a performance at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville a particular highlight.

Surviving are his Wife: Shirley Taylor of Palmer; Children: Cheryl Taylor of Pana; Tina (Mike) Spengler of Stonington; Jamie Dohse of Mattoon; Angela (Melvin) Galvin of Pana; Tori (John) Aulabaugh of Palmer; Eight Grandchildren; eight Great-Grandchildren; Brother: Donald Taylor of Decatur; Sister: Donna (Dave) Parks of Shumway. He was preceded in death by his Brother: Robert (Sandra) Taylor and sister: Jackie (Dave) Lutz of Beecher City. 

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 10, 2016 from 5:00-8:00 p.m. at Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville, IL. Graveside services will be held on Thursday, August 11, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Anderson Cemetery in Palmer, IL with James Stanley officiating.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Illinois Chapter 2309 W. White Oaks Drive, Suite E Springfield, IL 62704                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Sutton Memorial Home in Taylorville is assisting the family with arrangements.