Earle A. Taylor, Jr., 97, of Gainesville, FL passed away peacefully on Saturday April 17, 2021 at his home with his family at his side after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis.
Earle was born in Gainesville, FL on July 27, 1923 to Earle “Dummy” Taylor and Leo Taylor. He married Jane Shropshire on September 4, 1949 in Daytona Beach, FL and they lived in Gainesville until Jane passed away on December 14, 2017.
Earle graduated from Gordon Military Academy in 1941 and the University of Florida with a B.S. in Education in 1948 where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity.
Earle proudly served in the U.S. Army 86th Infantry Division during World War II. After graduation from the University of Florida, he worked as a consignee for Texaco Oil Company, Sperry Rand Corporation as purchasing agent and Supervisor of Recording at the Alachua County Courthouse until his retirement.
After retirement, Earle and Jane spent many months each year at Ormond Beach, FL where Earle enjoyed playing tennis, swimming, and walking on the beach while Jane played Bridge.
Earle was a member of the Gainesville Quarterback Club, Eastside Garden Club (fishing club), Gainesville Has Beens and the First Presbyterian Church.
Earle was a lifelong Gator football fan whose father was Earle “Dummy” Taylor who played for the Gator football team in 1908-1912.
Earle was preceded in death by his parents Earle and Leo Taylor, sister Vivian Taylor, and his wife Jane Taylor. He is survived by his son John Taylor, and daughter Anne Taylor. The family would like to thank Haven Hospice for their care and support during the past year. In lieu of flowers, please consider donations in Earle’s name to Haven Hospice 4200 NW 90th Blvd. Gainesville, FL 32606. A Private family service will be held at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of MILAM FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES 311 S. Main Street Gainesville, FL 32601 (352) 376-5361 www.milamfh.com
