Gerald Leon Taylor Obituary (1915

November 15, 1915 - February 10, 2018 Shaw & Sons Funeral Directors Gerald "The General" Leon Taylor was born 102 years ago on November 15, 1915 in Altus, Oklahoma to Ernest and Rue Taylor. His family moved to Mule Shoe, TX as a young boy until they relocated to Southern California. In 1939 he married his beloved bride of 53 years, Mahdean Taylor. He served in the US Army in WWII 1944-1946 as a combat engineer. He was a very experienced motor cycle enthusiast. He also had a love for flying in which he became an avid pilot who advanced to a twin engine rating. He was friends with Roy Rogers, Richard Boone and Sammy Davis, Jr. in California. G.L. operated Taylor Towing, Taylor Rental Yard and Flying A Douglas Station along with Andrew Girley, Ross McLaren and brother Jack. Gerald loved working with hands and provided many opportunities for family and friends over the years through his various businesses and passion for a hard day's work and a job well done! Are the principals he lived. His leadership and love for life will be always an inspiration to all those who met him. Gerald is survived by his children, Jerry (Virginia), Rodger, Leon (Jean), Dale (Elizabeth), Andy (Rene) Taylor, Sue Taylor Flezdok and Debbie Carlson; 16 grandchildren, 37 great grandchildren and one great, great grandchild. He and Mahdean raised at least 25 other children as well with selflessness and love for all who were in need. He was preceded in death by his wife Mahdean, parents, siblings, Dean, Jack, Ernest, Stewart, Violet, Betty and Dawn, son, Nick and granddaughter Nicole Bass. G.L. was a leader and mentor to a multitude of lives he encountered. To our Father, Brother, Grandfather, Great Grandfather you are forever loved and cherished. The family would like to send a special "thank you" to his caregivers, Ashley, Gerald and Keith (therapists) and (VA nurse) Kelly, and (VA PA) Mr. O'Neil who always brightened his day. A viewing will be held Thursday, February 15, 2018 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Shaw & Sons Funeral Directors, 201 N. 2nd Street, Yakima. Graveside service is scheduled for Friday, February 16, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at Reservation Community Memorial Park, Wapato, those whom wish to attend may meet at Shaw & Sons at 12:20 p.m. to follow the hearse or meet at the cemetery by 1:00 p.m. Memorial service and reception will follow also at Shaw & Sons. Memories may be shared at www.shawandsons.com.