Lester Gene Taylor

Lester Gene Taylor, a man whose life was a testament of hard work and unwavering love for his family, passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, at his home, at the age of 76. Born on April 1, 1948, in Lawrence, Kansas, his journey through life was marked by a remarkable career in the oil industry that took him across the globe. His career allowed him to explore places such as New Guinea, Ecuador, Africa, and various places within the United States.

Known for his exceptional skills and ability to master any task he set his mind to, he earned a reputation as a jack of all trades. He was a drilling consultant on many jobs, as well as an excellent certified welder. He found joy in staying busy and was mechanically inclined; evident in his passion for rebuilding cars and operating heavy machinery like the Kubota tractor and dozer.

Beyond his work achievements, he cherished time spent pursuing his hobbies. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoyed activities like bird hunting and catfishing. In his youth, he shared his musical talents within the family gospel band and had an inherent love for bluegrass and country gospel music. His loyal companion and beloved dog Cricket brought him immense joy throughout the years.

His proudest accomplishment was the enduring love he shared with his late wife Sheila, whom he married on June 16, 1967. Their union spanned 55 years until her passing in 2023. He treasured moments spent with family above all else and seized every opportunity to create lasting memories with them.

He leaves behind a legacy cherished by those who knew him best. He is survived by his sons, Terry Taylor and wife Jennifer of Claremore, OK, and Tracy Taylor and wife Tina of Salina, OK; daughter, Rachel Pritchett and husband Kevin of Salina, OK; brothers, Larry Taylor and Renee of Bartlesville, OK, and Jamie Jo Taylor of Pryor, OK; sister, Shirley Giles of Pryor; along with 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents Vester and Opal Taylor; wife, Sheila Taylor; twin brother, Dean Taylor; as well as brothers, Terry Taylor and Gary Taylor. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Graveside services for Gene will be held at 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, July 23, 2024, at Ross Mayes Cemetery in Salina with Terry Taylor, Tracy Taylor, Chris Burgess, James Burgess, Kevin Brown, Cody Mix, Zane Taylor, and Kaleb Pritchett serving as casket bearers. A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Monday, July 22, 2024, at Shipman's Funeral Home in Pryor. To leave his family a message, please visit his guestbook at www.shipmansfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Shipman's Funeral & Cremation Service of Pryor.