James Donald “Jim” Taylor died peacefully at his home in Columbia on Nov. 4, 2008, after a long battle with cancer. His family was with him and he left this life without fanfare and surrounded by his family.
He was born Dec. 5, 1937, in Kansas City, Mo to Donald and Lois Taylor. He lived in Kansas City most of his life. He attended Kansas City University now UMKC, and worked for The Bendix Corp. and later for Optical Gaging Products of Rochester, NY.
He returned to Missouri from Rochester, NY and settled in Columbia in 2001. His hobbies were maps, planes and computers. He will be greatly missed by his family and friends here and across the United States. He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Gene Ellen nee Morgenthaler, sister, Barbara Singleton of Kearny, MO, Nephews Donald and partner Al Duckworth and David Singleton, wife JoAnn and Amber. Sister in law Dana Morgenthler and her husband Melvin G. Bradley and niece Jessica White (William) and great nephew Alexander White. He is also survived by many cousins through marriage. Especially Robert Mountjoy and family of Columbia, and Bill and Pat McGill of Des Moines, IA.
At Jim’s request there will be no formal service. Family and friends may come to 2609 Gabrianna Ct., Columbia, MO to celebrate his life on Saturday, November 8, 2008 from 4-8 p.m.
In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Central Missouri Humane Society, MU Sinclair School of Nursing for the Aging in Place program; Boone Hospice; or to the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, DUMC, Duke University, Durham, NC.
We would like to thank the dedicated doctors and nurses at Mo Cancer Associates, Boone Hospice and the Duke brain tumor team for the caring support and treatment received.
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Gene, we were devastated to learn about Jim’s passing. He was such a wonderful person and we loved him dearly. He was so full of fun. Even though we haven’t been in touch for quite some time, we have thought of the two of you often. Our condolences to you and Jim’s family.