William L. "Bill" Taylor, 91 of Pittsburg, KS died at his home Wednesday, February 22, 2023. He was born on the family farm on July 2, 1931, near Nashville, MO, to Lloyd and Margaret (Barnard) Taylor. After graduating from high school in Mindenmines, MO, Bill enlisted in the United States Marine Corps at Kansas City, MO, on January 12, 1951, and went to basic training camp in San Diego, CA. He then moved to Camp Pendleton, CA to infantry training. He served on the front lines in the Korean War. From there, he was sent for service in Japan—his camp being located at the base of Mount Fuji. Bill was honorably discharged on January 5, 1954.
On October 15, 1960, Bill was united in marriage to Catherine Higgins in Mound City, KS. After nearly 62 years of marriage, she preceded him in death on July 16, 2022.
After returning home from military service, Bill spent the next 18 years working with his uncle who owned Barnard Construction. After leaving the construction business, Bill worked for 20 years as a truck driver for the P&M Coal Company. Bill retired in 1990.
Memberships were held in the American Legion Post #64 in Pittsburg, VFW and Local 1627 UMWA. In addition to the Casinos, reading, fishing, and traveling, he most enjoyed entertaining friends and family with his wonderful jokes and stories. Bill will be missed.
In addition to many nieces, nephews, and cousins, Bill is survived by his local family: his cousin Patty LaFever and his nephews John Peterson, Paul Peterson, and Jared Peterson.
He was preceded in death by countless friends and family, including his sister Louise Peterson, and nephews David Peterson and Steve Peterson.
Graveside services will be at a later date at the Nashville Cemetery in Nashville, MO. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Bill's honor should be made to the charity of your choice. Condolences may be left at www.bathnaylor.com .
