Richard Taylor

SOUTH LEBANON -- Richard S. (Dick) Taylor, age 94, of South Lebanon, Ohio, formerly of Lakeview, Ohio passed away peacefully December 26, 2025, with his family by his side.

Dick was born December 14, 1931, in Bellefontaine, Ohio, to the late Lester D. and Beryl (Van Horn) Taylor.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Linda (Vermillion) Taylor; their daughter, Julie Manchella and her husband, Suresh, of Maineville, Ohio; his grandson, Bryant Hughes and his wife, Ryan, of Baltimore, Maryland; and daughter Virginia Taylor of Lakeview, Ohio.

He was preceded in death by their son, Richard Todd Taylor, son Steve Taylor, and son Mike Taylor.

Dick grew up in the Lakeview area, where he learned the value of hard work that would shape his entire life. Construction was more than a career for him-it was who he was. He began as a carpenter and went on to serve as a superintendent for various general contractors, building not only structures but lasting legacies. Over the years, he helped construct schools and hospitals throughout Ohio, and later nursing homes in Florida. Most meaningful to him, however, were the many homes he built for his own family.

Above all else, Dick's life centered around his family. Nothing brought him greater joy than sitting down together for dinner each night, surrounded by those he loved. He cherished taking his family fishing and eventually built a lake front home at their favorite place, Fletcher's Floodwater in Michigan, where countless memories were made.

In retirement, Dick embraced life fully. He traveled throughout the United States and Canada with his beloved wife, Linda, in their travel trailer, spent time helping his children with their projects, and treasured quiet moments snuggled on the couch watching movies with his grandson. Fall weekends were happily busy, as he made sure never to miss a football game.

Dick will be deeply and sorely missed by his family, whose lives are forever better because of his love, dedication, and steady presence.

Reverend Bryan Meadows will begin funeral services at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, December 30, 2025, at Shoffstall Funeral Home, 205 S. Main St, Lakeview, with visitation from 1-2 pm. Burial is in Walnut Hill Cemetery, New Hampshire, OH.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contribution in Dick's memory may be given to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.

Arrangements are in the care of Shoffstall Funeral Home, Lakeview, OH. Condolences may be expressed at shoffstallfuneralhome.com.