Nolan Richard Taylor, 97, of Van Wert passed away Tuesday afternoon, March 31, 2026, at VanCrest of Van Wert.

He was born on December 5, 1928, in Grover Hill the son of the late Thomas and Christine (Winters) Taylor. On May 29, 1948, he married Joy Isabelle (Sanderson) Taylor and they enjoyed 75 years of marriage before she passed on March 14, 2024.

Richard was a 1947 graduate of Grover Hill High School. He was a farmer, construction worker, a master carpenter, plumber, and drove a school bus for Wayne Trace Schools. He was also a member of the Wayne Trace School Board for 12 years. Later when Richard and Joy lived in Florida, he was a tour bus driver and they were champion square dancers. He had been a member of Roselms Church and also attended Mt. Pleasant and First Baptist Church in Van Wert.

Richard is survived by his daughter, Tonya Joy Taylor of Van Wert and several nieces and nephews and great nieces and nephews.

Richard was preceded in death by five siblings and spouses, Ronald & Mabel Taylor, Willis & Velma Taylor, Edward & Mabel Taylor, Leland & Bertie Taylor, and Irene & Everett Ford.

Services will be held at 12 noon, Monday, April 6, 2026, at Cowan & Son Funeral Home with Pastor David Prior officiating. Interment will follow at Middle Creek Cemetery. Calling hours are 10:00 a.m. - Noon Monday prior to the service.

Preferred memorials are to the Grover Hill Fire and EMS.

Expressions of sympathy may be forwarded at cowanfuneralhome.com.