Glenn Reich Taylor

It is with profound sadness that the family of Glenn R. Taylor announces his passing. Glenn, a distinguished engineer and pioneer in NASA's aerospace and planetary science missions, dedicated his life to advancing technology and scientific discovery.

Glenn was born to Wayne Reich and Mary Lila (Miller) Taylor in Wheeler, Texas in November of 1940. He grew up in Roger Mills County, Oklahoma on their family's farm. Glenn attended school in Reydon, Oklahoma where he graduated in 1959. He then went on to complete a double major in Math and Physics at Southwestern Oklahoma State University in 1962.

Glenn was married to Mary "Sandy" Morris Taylor, his devoted partner and cherished companion, from 1969 until her passing in 2024. He is survived by his children, Christopher Reich Taylor, his wife, Elizabeth, and their sons, Jacob and Aaron of St. Andrews, Scotland and Kimberly Anne Taylor Hailer, her husband, Benjamin, and their children, William and Emma of Newport News, Virginia. Glenn is also survived by his younger brother, McClarren Wayne 'Mac' Taylor and wife, Joan of Elk City, Oklahoma. He predeceased by his older sister, Mary Lou Taylor Montgomery of Stinnett, Texas and is survived by his nephews, Bobby Wayne Montgomery and wife Montee of Stinnett, Texas and Timothy Mark Montgomery, of Houston, Texas.

Glenn's career at NASA spanned nearly four decades - from 1963 until his retirement in 2003 - during which he rose from aerospace technologist to Director of Systems Engineering Competency at the Langley Research Center. His contributions were foundational in shaping the technologies that enabled groundbreaking space exploration, atmospheric research, and planetary science.

Among his most notable achievements were:

Leading the development of the Viking Lander Camera Systems, which captured some of the most iconic and scientifically invaluable images of Mars - including those that revolutionized our understanding of the Martian surface.

Succeeding in the design and flight of instruments for the Earth Radiation Budget Experiment (ERBE), a mission that measured Earth's energy balance and helped shape climate science for decades.

Pioneering the development of advanced laser and sensor systems, including the Lidar Atmospheric Sensing Experiment - a system that continues to fly on the ER-2 aircraft for atmospheric research.

Serving as Project Manager for the 2003 Mars Airplane Project - an innovative initiative to explore the feasibility of using airplanes as science platforms for Mars exploration - an idea that, though not approved for funding in 2001, remains a testament to his visionary thinking.

Leading the formation of the Simulation & Research Aircraft Division (SRAD) and overseeing the development of three new flight simulators, a motion base, and the B-757 ARIES - NASA's first new transport-class research aircraft in over two decades.

Glenn received numerous awards and recognition's for his work, including:

The NASA Exceptional Service Medal (1985)

The NASA Medal for Exceptional Scientific Achievement (1977)

The Meritorious Presidential Rank Award (2001)

The Supervisor of the Year Award from the Federal Women's Program (1993)

He was also honored with the Governor's School for the Gifted Certificate of Commendation (1983) and the National Safety Council's recognition (1966).

Glenn was not only a brilliant engineer, but a humble, compassionate man who valued family. Glenn's delight in later life was being part of his children's lives and watching his grandchildren grow. He was always ready to help anyone in need and gave freely of his time and energy. He diligently cared for his wife Sandy at their home for years of ill health prior to her passing. His legacy lives on in the joy he brought to his family and the love he gave without measure. He will be greatly missed.

His family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to an institution of your choice supporting youth STEM education.

Glenn R. Taylor - 1940 – 2026

May his memory be a beacon to those who dream and dare to reach for the stars.