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John Taylor Obituary
JOHN GIBSON TAYLOR JR. John Gibson Taylor, Jr. "Jack", was born in Brooklyn, New York, on April 2nd 1920. He is survived by his brother, Herbert Wilks Taylor who lives in Fairfax, Virginia. Jack graduated from Leonia High School, Leonia, New Jersey in 1938. Jack was drafted into the U.S. Army at Fort Dix, NJ on November 3rd 1941; just one month before the United States entered World War II. Following basic and technical training Jack reported to the War Department in Washington, DC, where he entered special training on codebooks and strip ciphers. In recognition of his new status as a cryptographer, he was promoted to master sergeant in June, 1942<$>6 stripes in 6 months! Jack was assigned to the American Embassy in London where he served as a teletype operator sending and receiving encrypted messages between Prime Minister Churchill and President Roosevelt. In sparse "free time, Jack met, courted and eventually married Olive Margaret Howe in October 1943. Olive worked in cryptography at Bletchley Park on the team that cracked the German Enigma Cipher. In 1944 Jack won a battlefield commission and joined General Eisenhower's SHAEF staff in France where he remained stationed until VE Day. Jack stayed in the Army following World War II; serving in the Army Security Agency where he helped establish and maintain communications listening posts all over Europe. During his travels around the globe he served as a battalion commander in post-war Korea and finished a distinguished Army career as Commander of the 9th Field Station at Clark Field in the Philippines. Following retirement from the Army, Jack and Olive relocated to Vero Beach where he began a new professional career as an Executive Director for the American Cancer Society. Jack was a dedicated member of the Exchange Club of Vero Beach, a certified "Son of the American Revolution", a renowned bird watcher, a devoted stamp collector and a faithful friend. Jack is survived by four sons: John Gibson Taylor, III (USAF Colonel, Retired), Christopher Edward Taylor, Mark Howe Taylor, and Richard Wilks Taylor (USAF Colonel, Retired). A memorial service will be held at 1 pm on Friday, January 8th, at Trinity Episcopal Church, 2365 Pine Avenue, Vero Beach, FL. Colonel John G. Taylor, Jr. will be buried with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Jack asked that memorial gifts be made to the Scholarship Foundation Trust, The Exchange Club of Vero Beach, Inc., P.O. Box 1982, Vero Beach, FL 32961-1982. paid obituary
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Memories and Condolences
for John Taylor
carol coy
January 28, 2010
The guestbook will be going off line soon, thus i feel like this will be closing a chapter of col taylor and my friendship. perhaps here on earth but it shall remain forever in eternity. you will be eternally remembered as a great human being that blessed so many lives. to your family may the lord keep you all safe and may you some how find comfort in knowing you all are thought of in such a special way and our prayers will continue to be with you. god bless you with. in friendship...carol
Dwayne Tallman
January 26, 2010
Who would have thought a lunch at Bobby's would have lead to my serving on the American Cancer Society Board of Directors for over 10 years. Jack obviously touched the lives of so many people through his varied interests. I consider it a privilege to have known him and consider him a friend. Deepest condolences to his family.
January 18, 2010
Pauline and I first met Jack in 1989 when we had a vacation in Florida. We were put in touch with him by a mutual friend in the UK. Without hesitation he arranged to meet us at Merritt Island Bird Sanctuary. He gave us a lot of time during that visit and we struck up a friendship which lasted until he passed away.We have visited Florida many times since then and each time called on Jack and Olive, staying for a couple of nights and eating out together.
We last saw Jack at the memorial service for Olive in Surrey, England, last June. He had lost a great deal of weight from the last time we saw him in Florida in October 2008 and was not very well. However, we were not prepared for the shock of hearing of his eventual death.
We will never forget him and will always appreciate the time and help he gave to us whenever we met him. Nothing was too much trouble.
He was a genuine( in British terms) "good bloke".
Les and Pauline Perrett,
Mattishall,
Norfolk,
England
Nancy Richardson
January 15, 2010
Although I received the birding results from his frequent trips to Indian River over the past 12 years or so, I only met Jack last year. He was riding in a golf course with Joe Carroll looking for scrub jays. Even though he had his oxygen tank with him, he was excited to be out there and spending his time and talent helping others to learn about his passion. When I had a birding question that stumped me and my colleagues, he would rally his troops and find an answer. I will miss his monthly birding communication and his upbeat comments.
Mitchell Clark
January 13, 2010
Jack,
You were a busy man, I'm proud to have known you. It seems like our lives are a small measuring stick compared to yours. Thanks for your service.
Mitchell Clark
Carol Coy
January 9, 2010
The memorial Service which was held 1/8/10 was very instumental in keeping the message of Col. Taylor going. With all the folks that came for it clearly made a state. Friendship was Col Taylor's true gift to this world. I thank him so much. Thank you to the Taylor family for giving us the opportunity to share this time with you. You will continue to be in my thoughts and in my prayers. and yes whenever i hear "this is" I will finish it with hello this is Col Taylor :) What a statement to all mankind.
Joe Elena Heinz
January 8, 2010
Jack Taylor was a wonderful man. I know that my life was much richer, because Jack was in it. He will be missed.......
Sallie Byrd
January 8, 2010
My deepest symapathies go out to Jack's family. What an interesting fine man he was. We met in the mid 1970's before I even began my long career with the American Cancer Society. We became fast friends, shared many dinners at Berns in Tampa and many experiences over the years. We kept in touch through email and phone and I shall be sorry I never went birding with him on the golf course escapade. My thoughts are with you all as the world and you have lost a one of a kind.
Jack Greets the Dawn 12/18/2004 Fairwinds Golf Course
Stephen Chalmers
January 7, 2010
Dear Jack instantly found connections and tied people together. He tied me into golf course surveys over the last 10 years, and the South Brevard Christmas Bird Counts as well. I discovered a far-stretched military connection too. The listening posts mentioned in his obituary? I very probably served, in the same ASA, years later, at one of the posts he established. I will miss him.
Gerv Orton
January 7, 2010
I met Jack by chance encounter, birdwatching in Norfolk, England, and we became good friends from that point. We have met on a number of occasions since and also kept in touch by e-mail.
Jack was always knowledgeable and interesting on a wide range of subjects, a kind person and very good company. I am so pleased to have bumped into him on that winter's day when he was twitching a Dovekie. I will miss him and my thoughts and prayers go out to all hs family.
Jim and Wendy Flinchbaugh
January 6, 2010
Jack was instrumental in my interest in birds. He taught both of us a great deal with great enthusiasm and patience. We will miss him and I'm sure his birds will too.
Betty Henry
January 6, 2010
I met Jack through his dear friend, Ed Oulund, when I was looking for help in starting a Stamp Club for students at Oslo Middle School. He and Ed were already sponsors of a Saturday morning kids stamp club, but Jack proceeded to give ten years of volunteer service as a faithful sponsor, generous benefactor, and great mentor at Oslo Middle School. He even arranged a birding trip to Quail Valley for them on a cold January morning! I will always treasure my years of contact with Jack. He greatly enriched my life and the lives of so many young people. Truly, a special man, he will be missed.
Betty Henry, Vero Beach, Florida
Doug Stuckey
January 6, 2010
Jack and i met many years ago with johnny johnson while birding. Johnny and i did the South Brevard BC numerous times and always enjoyed talking with jack. Jack was a gentleman and a truly nice guy and was an asset to the birding community. Rest easy jack and say hey to johnnny when you get there.
Tom Mansfield
January 6, 2010
Jack's passing is a great loss for those of us who served with him in that unique bunch who now call themselves the "Super Group". He played a major role in making it just that. He was fair, honest and right and I will miss him and cherish my memories. Good work Jack and now you can RIP. My condolences to his family.
Bob Clay
January 5, 2010
I never had the pleasure to meet Col. Taylor, but his son, Chris, and I met on a troop ship in route to Viet Nam. Two very green young 2nd Lts. not knowing what life had to bring before them. Although we separated on arrival we came back together at Ft. Meade and have remained dear friends since. Based on the quality of my friend, his choice of a wonderful spouse and their bright and ambitious son, I know the Col. had to be a very special man!
My family's deepest condolences to the entire Taylor family.
Cheryl Millett
January 5, 2010
Dear Taylor Family,
I met Colonel Jack because of his bird surveys and reports at the Indian River Golf Club. Joe Carroll arranged Jay Watch surveys of the Florida scrub-jays there in the summer, and Colonel Jack sent reports of what he and his groups saw when they looked for birds throughout the year. It was always a bright spot reading his sightings and he was a wonderful advocate for the birds. I will miss his ebullient personality and his emails.
My thoughts are with you in this loss.
Tim Grabenbauer
January 5, 2010
To the Taylor Family
I met Jack through the Exchange Club. He immediately approached me about serving on the board. After my first year as Treasurer (which he talked me into) he called me at home and asked me to keep the job for a second year, I said I'd like to think about it for a couple of days. At the next meeting it was annouced I had agreed to a second year!
He was a wonderful man who didn't miss a beat and will be missed dearly.
My prayers are with your family.
Pat and David Boyd
January 5, 2010
We met Jack on the internet just a few years ago when he bought a stamp from us for his collection. He spotted our address in England which was in the same road as Olive lived when he was courting her. We subsequently met him in person when he returned his wife's remains to the local church where they were married. He was a fine and interesting man and we offer our condolences to his family and many friends.
January 4, 2010
Our family has had a long and happy relationship with the Taylors, beginning with joint travels by our grandparents, Jesse and Elizabeth Leslie of Leonia, NJ, through friendship with our mother, Diana Leslie Jost, another Leonia High alum, and dad, Dr. Hal Jost of Sarnia, Ontario, Canada. My husband, Berny (LCOL ret Berny Couture) and I were thrilled to host Jack and Olive in our home in Chelsea, Quebec, and have often corresponded with him, particularly on military topics. He was particularly interested in our attaché experience in Argentina. Having lost both my parents recently, I feel your loss deeply. Jack and Olive will be sorely missed, but their legacy is rich and you have many wonderful memories to sustain you. Thank you for this opportunity to say goodbye. - Elizabeth Jost Couture, Burnstown, Ontario. [email protected]
Paul McShane; National Exchange Region 9 VP
January 4, 2010
To the Taylor Family
God Bless Jack and all of you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jane Brooks
January 4, 2010
To the Taylor Family
Jack will be missed by his many friends. He cared about people and kept up with them. I have spent time birding with him over the course of
probably 25 years.I remember the first bird he started his life list with. He had come along to take pictures. I shared many of his golf course surveys.
He was so proud of his family and I send my sympathy to all of you.
Emily Bever
January 4, 2010
I first met Jack when he was coordinating the South Brevard Christmas count, and later joined him in bird surveys of golf courses by golf cart for Audubon International. We became good friends and he often shared stories about his days in England where he met the love of his life, Olive. He was very proud of his sons and grandchildren and was greatly admired by all who knew him. He kept in touch with me by e-mail and phone, and I shall miss him very much. My heart-felt condolences to his family, and regret that I will be unable to attend the memorial service.
Jan Pryor
January 4, 2010
It's clear that Jack Taylor Jr. was a great man that his family and his nation are rightly proud of... I know that his sons and grandchildren are carrying on his tradition of excellence and service to humanity.
January 4, 2010
Our condolences to the family. We appreciated Jack taking us birding by car plus golf cart birding to see a "Life Duck" the next day. Best, Anne & Sky Hilts of Tucson AZ
Art Dister
January 4, 2010
I met Jack Taylor in Korea in 1958 when he was my Battalion Commander. He was a superb leader who knew how to get the best from his subordinateas. In recent years, we renewed our friendship and I learned then he was simply a good man and a great guy.
Mark Rounds
January 4, 2010
My father Paul H. Rounds proudly served under Col. Jack Taylor while in the Army Security Agency (ASA). Dad died March 5, 2009. While I was growing up my father spoke very little about his time served other than to say I served my Country. Therefore, until his recent death I really did not know the extent of what these men in the ASA really did for Anerica until right before my father died and he revealed only a few details that were incredible to say the least. These men under the command of Col. Jack Taylor served our Country with the highest honor, loyalty, and with the utmost confidentiality that I have ever known. We will never really know what they truly endured to ensure our safety and freedom we enjoy today. When Dad died last March I notified the "Super Group" that Dad loved so dearly, and the next day I received a phone call from Col.Jack Taylor which I will never forget. This man that I had never spoken to in my life said to me with a skaky voice that he had "never forgotten my Dad because he was one of the finest" under his command. Col. Taylor said that Dad dying was like "losing a brother" to him. These kind sincere words will always be very special to me and I am truly grateful to have had this one conversation with such a fine man. My very deepest sympathy to Col. Taylor's family and to our Nation.
Joellen Lampman
January 4, 2010
While I have never met Jack, he has been emailing me his birding results from local golf courses since 2001. I will miss my monthly updates from Lapwing. We have lost a talented man who was generous with his time and a wonderful resource. My prayers are with his family.
Micki Chaput
January 4, 2010
When my dad, Jack Curran, died in Dec. 2000, his old army buddies, Tom Wilson and Jack Taylor asked to continue an email correspondence with me, Jack's oldest daughter. They said they could probably tell me some things about Dad that I didn't know. It was a priceless and generous gift that gave me great comfort and for which I will always be so grateful. My sympathy to Jack's family for the loss of this lovely man.
John Chapman
January 4, 2010
Many of us at the Code Breaking Station Bletchley Park (now a Museum)
Were proud to have had many contacts with Lt Col Taylor, these were mainly through the First Day Covers we produced at Bletchley Park Post Office, since he first made contact with us in 1995, we have had interesting exchanges.
From all at Bletchley Park our Condolences but sincere respects and our priviledge to have known such a Gentleman
John Chapman
(postmaster Bletchley Park Post Office)
Bletchley MK36EB, United Kingdom
Greg Farley
January 4, 2010
Col. Taylor was an impressive man in many, many ways. I had the fortune of joining him on several boating trips during Christmas Bird Counts and looked forward to spending time with him. I literally thought of him last week (my father passed away in Vero Beach not so long ago) and dreamed I called him with a sighting of a Long-eared Owl! I hope he was able to see one with his sons since we last met.
Condolences from my family to yours.
Jean Wainwright
January 4, 2010
Jack has been a friend to my husband Andy for many years. Jack became my friend and holds a special place with me when I made arrangements for him to take his beloved Olive home to England.
Jean Wainwright
Eddie List
January 4, 2010
I first met Col. Taylor through Exchange Club many years ago. He greatly influenced my life by sharing his experience and wisdom with me, as well as leading by example with his tireless efforts in service. I consider him a great friend and a mentor, and I will certainly miss him and his quick wit. My prayers are with his family.
Joe Carroll
January 4, 2010
We will miss the Colonel's enthusiasm and love for birding. Getting out early for a chance to bird on a golf cart was a pleasure that you could feel emanating from him, and ailments could not conquer. Best wishes to the family.
Mary & Hugh Nicolay
January 4, 2010
We had the good fortune of knowing both Olive and Jack during the past decade. With Olive we shared a love of books. With Jack it was birds. They had a long and rich life and gave back much to their friends and community.
Mary and Hugh Nicolay, Melbourne Village, Florida
Carolyn Ragan
January 4, 2010
I only knew Jack because he graciously took me birding when I was in Florida four years ago. I was total stranger and he put aside the time to show me the best spots and share his knowledge. At lunch I ordered fried squash and in subsequent emails I was addressed as "Fried Squash". He was a delight to be with, knew his stuff and encouraged me to pursue my hobby and I have. My sincere sympathy to his family.
Eric Menger
January 4, 2010
The transition of this great man on Christmas Day could not be more appropriate, although sad for those who knew him. Every day of his life, Jack gave of himself to his fellow man, and I don't ever remember him saying anything unkind about anyone. I am sure I speak for all of Exchange and for his many friends in wishing his family peace and healing. May God bless you Col. Jack! We will all miss you.
January 4, 2010
Jack was a high school mate of Werner's and we had great times at the many reunions the class of 38' had all over the country. Our prayers are with you all. Louise and Werner Rahmlow
Eric Menger
January 4, 2010
The transistion of this great man on Christmas Day could not be more appropriate, although sad for those who knew him. Every day of his life, Jack gave of himself to his fellow man, and I don't ever remember him saying anything unkind about anyone. I am sure I speak for all of Exchange and for his many friends in wishing his family peace and healing. May God bless you Col. Jack! We will all miss you.
January 4, 2010
I first met "Jack" & Olive on 13th June 1988 on a ferry from Skye to North Uist on the Outer Hebrides. Jack and I had two things in common, our work and birds! We remained good friends for twenty-one years and both are sorely missed.Our sympathy is with all who knew him!
Paul & Pat Gaffan, Suffolk. UK
Stu Stegenga
January 3, 2010
Col Jack was a wonderful friend and mentor to me in the Exchange club. He was always willing to help on any project and had a wonderful ability to get others to want to participate. He was so proud of his family. I will miss him.
Beth Wodtke
January 3, 2010
Col Taylor will always have a special place in my heart. He always appreciated anything you did for him. I will cherish the Christmas Card I received from him this year( with the help from his son Mark) With all my love, Beth Wodtke.
Katherine Speirs
January 3, 2010
I have known Jack for about 10 years and have grown quite fond of him. He was an extremly nice man and I cherished his friendship. We both shared a love for orchids and he taught me a lot about them. The special orchid that he gave me bloomed on Christmas day. I will miss him so much. My thoughts and sympathy to his family.
Alice Allington
January 3, 2010
My prayers are with you and your family in the death of your precious Father.
I knew Jack well. I was privileged to call him my friend and mentor.
The Jack that I knew adored and was so very proud of his family. Olive was a much-loved and respected wife. Jack contributed to his community in a professional yet personal way. He left his imprint on Vero.
Jack was my mentor in the American Cancer Society. He served the Society with enthusiam, innovation, dedication and integrity. He set this example for me, and then spent time coaching me in the how-to of the American Cancer Society. When I faced personal challenges in my life, he was there with a listening ear, wise advice, and deep concern. What a friend! I was blessed to know him.
Alice Allington
January 3, 2010
As the minister who officiated at the interment of Olive's cremated remains at her original home in Kingswood, England I knew Jack only via email and at the service itself. I pass my deepest condolences to the family.
The Revd. Garth Barber
Debbie Baxter
January 3, 2010
It is sad that "Lapwing" is signing off. Jack's death is leaving a big gap in many of our lives. He was such a people person and such a friend to so many of us. We will miss him very much. We send our sympathy to you, his family.
William Smith
January 3, 2010
Our heart felt condolences go to all the family of Col Taylor. I met him in 1954 when he recruited me into Det V. I served under many very good officers during my military career but Col Taylor was by far the best. He will be missed. SFC(ret) William J. Smith
Carol Coy
January 3, 2010
Col. Taylor will always remain a special soul in my heart. He was not only a patient of mine, he was a friend. I'll always cherish the lighthouse. Col. Your' the best! To the family, my thoughts are with you. Carol
Kathleen Scott
January 3, 2010
Jack was one of the most extraordinary men I've ever known. His infectious zest for life made him a leader and a joy. He's my pattern for living a good and happy life, regardless of age.
richard stewart
January 3, 2010
i did not know col taylor that well , i met him a few times while i was in the unit
i was pick up by the unit 10 right out of 058 school at ft devens mass
in 1957
i was sent to kabul , i paid my wifes when there
we were transfered to paris france next then back to the states
went to teheran in 1963 then bangkok thailand
i was then sent to viet nam for a tour
when i came back i had a few months to retire
we retired in 1972 and moved to robinson ill,. my wifes home town
and we are still here
give are condolences to the family
richard stewart us army (ret)
richard stewart
January 3, 2010
My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.
Bob Smith
January 3, 2010
I remember him as an excellent commander. His type of leadership is rare and appreciated by those who served with him.
God Speed!
Bob Smith
CWO, USA Retired
January 3, 2010
I am a Former member of Unit 10. I did not know Jack but my condolences are with all the family at this time. God bless and may this year 2010 be a better one for the family.
John D. Hannigan SSGT 1963-1964 Hqtrs Supply
Howard Loates
January 3, 2010
I met Jack only once, entirely accidentally, on a days birding sometime in the early nineties at the southern tip of Shetland near my home at that time. He was trying to identify all the local specialities and as I was on my weekly recording trip I invited him to join me and take advantage of local knowledge. We ended up exchanging addresses as we had had such an enjoyable day and we have been in contact by phone and letter since. A lovely man.
A sad loss to his family and many friends.
We offer our condolences.
Howard & Jan Loates
Inverness
January 3, 2010
Our deepest condolences to the family of Jack Taylor. It was an honor to have associated with such a distinguished individual.
John and Billie Smith
Super Group Organization
Jens Tripson
January 3, 2010
It was truly a pleasure to have known Jack and birded with him. Those of us at Pelican Island Audubon who knew him will surely miss his enthusiasm and wealth of knowledge. Jens Tripson
Christopher J. Taylor
January 3, 2010
Grandpa will always be missed. The many Thanksgivings and other holidays spent with him and Granny in Vero will be cherished forever.
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