Ronald C. Taylor, of Pagosa Springs, Colo., passed away on Jan. 4 at 2:20 p.m. Ron loved the beauty of Colorado, the charm of Pagosa Springs and the many wonderful people, especially his friends at Pagosa Bible Church.
Ron was born in Englewood, N.J., on May 2, 1935, to the late Robert M. and Irene M. Taylor. Ron is preceded in death by his parents; brother Robert Taylor and his first wife, Sylvia; daughter Jill Bailey; and stepson Sgt. 1st Class James E. Thode. He is survived by his wife, Eve, of 28 years; son Ronald C. Taylor Jr. (Donna); grandchildren Ryan Taylor and Brittney Gribbons (Steve); stepchild Mary Ann Thode; daughter-in-law Carla Thode; and grandchildren Thomas and Ashley Thode.
Ron was educated in the Tenafly, N.J., public schools, and the Miami University (BS) in Oxford, Ohio, Montclair State College (MA) in Upper Montclair, N.J., and the University of Arizona (MST), in Tucson, Ariz. Ron was a mathematics teacher at Fair Lawn Senior High School in New jersey and Catalina High School, Sahuaro High School, Palo Verde Christian High School and Pima Community College, all in Tucson, Ariz. He was a research specialist for NASA in astronomy at the University of Arizona for 22 years. After taking an early retirement from teaching and research, Ron received a calling to the ministry, was ordained and served on pastoral staff of Christ Community Church in Tucson. Ron and his wife, Eve, moved to Pagosa Springs, Colo., in 2000, where he served as associate pastor of Pagosa Bible Church until mid-summer of 2003, at which time he retired and then served as a church elder.
On Oct. 4, 1971, Ron accepted the free gift of salvation from God by receiving Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. He is now experiencing that which was promised before the foundation of the world. Praise be to God.
Memorial services will be held at a later date at Pagosa Bible Church with Pastor Dave Stene officiating. Ron was a man of deep faith and impeccable integrity. He was a devoted, loving husband and father, and a loyal friend to many.
