Robert N. Taylor

Mr. Robert N. Taylor, a gifted child, arrived in the world on April 3, 1950. He was the first son of the late James William and Mary Louise Taylor. He was proudly given the name Robert Nathanual Taylor. On Jan. 9, 2012. Robert's life abruptly came to a close. He departed this world peacefully after a short illness.

He was a gifted student who achieved the highest score among all African-American students in the state of South Carolina on the National SAT College Entrance Exam. He graduated from Mayo High School, located in Darlington, S.C., valedictorian of his class. He graduated from Howard University with a BA degree in English. He graduated from Columbia University with a master's degree in broadcasting and journalism. He was editor of the student newspaper at Howard University, "The Hilltop." He worked at Howard University radio station WHUR from 1973 to 1985. He also served as news director, news reporter and general manager at Howard's radio station. He was a freelance journalist and wrote articles for a number of black newspaper companies up until he became ill. In 1974, Robert married Loretta Hobbs and to this union two sons, Samoura James Hobbs Taylor and Sidique Neal Hobbs Taylor, were born. Robert stated that he loved and was very proud of them.

Robert is survived by Loretta Hobbs; his two sons, Samoura James Hobbs Taylor and Sidique Neal Hobbs Taylor; a brother, Oscar L. Taylor; four sisters, Jacqueline Golden, Deborah Ballentine, and LaRue Bonner (Jeffrey) and Opal Taylor; nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services will be conducted at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012, from the Chapel of Tucker's Funeral Home, 415 Halifax St.. Petersburg, Va., with Dr. Antonio A. Tucker officiating. Family and friends are to assemble at 12:30 p.m. the day of the service at Tucker's Funeral Home. Remains rest at Tucker's Funeral Home, 415 Halifax St, Petersburg, Va. A.A. Tucker, funeral director.