Nolan Richard Taylor

Nolan Richard Taylor, 97, of Van Wert passed away Tuesday afternoon, March 31, 2026, at VanCrest of Van Wert.

He was born on December 5, 1928, in Grover Hill the son of Thomas and Christine (Winters) Taylor, who both preceded him in death. On May 29, 1948, he married Joy Isabelle (Sanderson) Taylor and they enjoyed 75 years of marriage before she passed on March 14, 2024.

Richard was a 1947 graduate of Grover Hill High School. He was a farmer, construction worker, a master carpenter, plumber, and drove a school bus for Wayne Trace Schools. He was also a member of the Wayne Trace School Board for 12 years. Later when Richard and Joy lived in Florida, he was a tour bus driver and they were champion square dancers. He had been a member of Roselms Church and also attended Mt. Pleasant and First Baptist Church in Van Wert.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Tonya Joy Taylor of Van Wert and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by five siblings and spouses, Ronald and Mabel Taylor, Willis and Velma Taylor, Edward and Mabel Taylor, Leland &and Bertie Taylor, and Irene and Everett Ford.

A funeral service will be held at 12 p.m. Monday, April 6, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home, Van Wert, with Pastor David Prior officiating. Interment will follow at Middle Creek Cemetery. Calling hours are 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Monday prior to the service.

Preferred memorials: Grover Hill Fire and EMS.

Online condolences may be expressed on the Tribute Wall at cowanfuneralhome.com.