William D. Taylor

William D. Taylor was born September 15, 1950 in Gary, Indiana to the parents of Norma Jean Sims and James D. Taylor who both preceded him in death. He was the eldest of ten siblings born to his mother and one sister born within his father’s second marriage. One sister and two brothers preceded him in death: Belinda Taylor, Joseph Sims and Mark Anthony Gaines. William was also fond of a bonus brother, Mark Dickson, who also preceded him in death.

He attended Antioch Baptist early in life. Later at the age of 17, he was drafted by the United States Army where he served in the Vietnam War. Williams service lasted 11 years in which he received the Bronze medal along with many other awards.

After service to his country, he worked at various jobs. He volunteered for several years at the Salvation Army Men’s Shelter before settling into maintenance at the VA Hospital. He then retired to enjoy the fruits of his labor.

William enjoyed watching Westerns, playing video games and caring for his grandchildren who affectionately called him PawPaw.

He leaves to cherish in his memory three children Anthony “Boo” Keys, William “BJ” Taylor Jr and his only daughter Ashayla “Shayla” Taylor, all of Danville IL. His brothers Ricky Gaines (Shawntea) and David Gaines both of Danville IL, Floyd “Eddie” Gaines (Althea) of Forth Wayne IN, and four sisters Sherry Luster, Dolly Blackwell, Stephanie Rice (Richard) of Danville IL and Wanda Sandford of Oakland CA.

William also leaves in his memory thirteen grandchildren, several great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services will be private at Leek & Sons Funeral Home. Services will be live streamed at 11:00 am on May 22, 2020 on our Facebook page Leek and Sons Funeral Home.

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