Paul Taylor

Paul Norman Taylor, 78, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, entered God’s Kingdom on Wednesday, May 24, 2023.

Paul was born on Jan. 8, 1945, to Russell and Ollie (Sims) Taylor in Poplar Bluff. He married Connie Chaney Taylor on Jan. 14, 1967.

Upon graduation from Poplar Bluff High School in 1962, he joined the Air Force and served in the Philippines during the Vietnam War. He served on the Poplar Bluff Chamber Board as President of Industries, Park and Recreation Board, and was also a member of the Jaycees. He retired from Smith Barney in 2009.

Paul is a member of First Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff; he and Connie were the first couple to be married in the sanctuary of First Baptist. He loved his family and traveling with them all over the United States, especially to his favorite location, the Smoky Mountains.

Paul enjoyed watching his grandson wrestle, as he would occasionally nap in between matches. He loved to take drives on old country roads, looking for deer. He also enjoyed watching old episodes of Gunsmoke. Paul had a way of making people laugh and making others feel comfortable. He will truly be missed.

Paul is survived by his wife of 56 years, Connie Chaney Taylor; son, Brian (Melissa) Taylor; grandson, Gatlin Taylor; three sisters, Marie Groffel, Diana (Lee) Reed, and Vicki (Al) Barton; brother, Bob Taylor; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents; five brothers, Richard, Ivan, Jerry, Carol, and Don Taylor.

Visitation will be held from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesday, May 30, 2023, at First Baptist Church in Poplar Bluff. Funeral service will follow beginning 1 p.m. with Pastor Brandon Spain officiating. Burial will take place at the City Cemetery.

Memorials can be made to First Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is proud to serve the family and friends of Mr. Paul Taylor.

Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.