GARY LEE TAYLOR

Gary Lee Taylor, 76, passed away peacefully on February 13, 2026, with his beloved wife of 58 years, Judi, by his side. He left behind a legacy of service, devotion, and quiet strength that touched everyone who knew him. Born on June 11, 1949, in Worland, Wyoming, to George and Thelma Taylor, Gary was the eleventh of twelve children and grew up surrounded by the deep bonds of a large, close-knit family.

During his senior year of high school, Gary met the love of his life, Judith Ann Breen. Their connection was immediate and enduring. They became engaged on July 22, 1967, and while Gary was home on leave from U.S. Navy Boot Camp, they were married on August 3, 1968, at the Methodist Church in Bridger, Montana. Their partnership would become the foundation of a life filled with dedication, adventure, and unwavering commitment to family.

Gary enlisted in the United States Navy in June 1968 and reported aboard the USS Wexford County (LST 1168) in San Diego, California, where he trained as an electrician and rose to the

rank of Electrician's Mate Second Class. After additional service aboard the USS Cleveland and the USS El Paso (LKA 117), Gary was honorably discharged on March 1, 1972.

Gary and Judi welcomed their first son, Gregory Todd, on November 7, 1969, while stationed in San Diego. Their second son, Christopher Lee, was born on May 26, 1974, in Billings, Montana. As their boys grew, Gary and Judi were deeply involved in their activities-Scouts, 4-H, Little League Baseball, and flag football-always showing up, always supporting, always cheering.

In March 1978, Gary began a long and meaningful career with Basin Electric Power Cooperative at the Laramie River Station in Wheatland, Wyoming. As the Water Management Supervisor, he contributed to the operation of Units 1, 2, and 3 during their construction and beyond. After more than three decades of dedicated service, he retired in March 2009.

Gary was a man who found joy in the simple, steady work of caring for his home and family. He loved puttering around his property, tending to his yard, and took pride in the compliments he received on its appearance. He enjoyed woodworking and even flipped a couple of houses with his son Greg-projects that blended craftsmanship with cherished time together.

Gary's family grew through the generations. Greg welcomed a son, Cody James, on March 25, 1992. Chris welcomed a son, Dylan James, on October 7, 1994. Dylan later welcomed Gary's great-grandson, Anakin and great-granddaughter Ellianna.

Gary endured profound loss with the passing of both of his sons. Christopher Lee passed away on January 28, 2011, and Gregory Todd on May 15, 2016. Their memories remained central in his heart. Gary was also preceded in death by his sister Mary Lou, his father George, brother David, mother Thelma, sister Margerie, brother Pat, brother Gerald, sister Bonnie, sister Caryl, sister Nancy, and sister Evelyn.

He leaves behind his beloved wife Judi, his grandchildren, great-grandchildren, his sister Judy, and extended family who will forever remember his steady presence, his work ethic, his stories, and the love he poured into every chapter of his life.

Gary's life was defined not only by the places he served or the work he accomplished, but by the people he loved and the quiet, enduring ways he showed up for them. His legacy lives on in the family he cherished and the memories they now hold close.

Arrangements for a memorial service are not yet determined and will be announced at a later date.

The Gorman Funeral Homes – Platte Chapel of Wheatland are in charge of the arrangements.

Condolences may be sent to the family at www.gormanfh.com