SANTA FE – Richard K. Taylor, born August 3, 1949, in Burnet, Texas, passed away on June 20, 2026, in Santa Fe, Texas. Richard was a proud Texan. He grew up in the Texas Hill Country and was later a resident of Texas City when he met the love of his life, Louisa Rojas Taylor, his beloved wife of 53 years.

Richard never met a stranger and loved to talk. He had a strong love for people and a gift for making others feel welcome. He would do anything for his friends and was known for his stand-up character. He was also known for his sense of humor and for always having the perfect idiom or saying for every situation.

He proudly served in the United States Navy from 1966 to 1972 and was a Vietnam veteran. Richard loved his country and was honored to have served. He was also a Mason at John Mitchell Lodge No. 1401, A.F. & A.M. where he had been a member since 1989.

Richard worked for Amoco, later British Petroleum, in Texas City, where he built many lifelong friendships. There he was known as “Rocky.” He was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and genuine love for his job. Those who knew him will remember the pride he took in his work and the lasting connections he made along the way.

Richard was dedicated to his family, and his greatest joys came from the simple moments they shared together. He fiercely supported his two daughters in every pursuit and instilled in them many of the values he lived by. He loved gathering around the table for traditional family meals, spending time with his grandchildren, and making memories with those he loved most. In his later years, he and Louisa enjoyed traveling together, and he took special pride in teaching his grandchildren skills such as welding and mechanics. He also cherished long conversations with his granddaughter and sons-in-law, and he loved his granddogs.

Richard was an outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing, and tending to his plants. He found joy in the simple beauty of nature and passed that love on to his children and grandchildren, creating memories and traditions that will continue through them.

Mornings were his favorite time of day, when he enjoyed his coffee and watching the hummingbirds. These quiet moments reflected the simple pleasures he cherished and the peace he found outdoors.

Richard is survived by his wife, Louisa R. Taylor; his daughters, Rachel Fano and husband, Daniel, and Jessica Anderson and husband, Brad; and his grandchildren, Paige Anderson, Carter Boaz, and Aidan Anderson. He is also survived by a large extended family who loved him dearly and knew him as “Taylor.”

He was preceded in death by his father, Homer B. Taylor; his mother, Billie Bible Taylor; and his brothers, Michael C. Taylor and Phillip Taylor.

Richard will be remembered for his big heart, his unwavering loyalty, his love of family, and the kindness he shared so freely with others. His stories, laughter, strength, and generous spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His passing leaves an immense hole in the lives of those who loved him, but his legacy will continue in the memories, values, and love he leaves behind.

The family will receive visitors Friday, June 26, 2026, beginning at 9:30 AM with a funeral service immediately following at 11:00 AM in the chapel of Hayes Funeral Home, 10412 Highway 6, Hitchcock, Texas. Interment will follow at Alta Loma Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Brandon Anderson, Daniel Fano, Paige Anderson, Carter Boaz, Aidan Anderson, Chris Boaz. Honorary pallbearers are Glen Brizendine, Raul Rojas, Ray Rojas, and Ruben Rojas.

The family would especially like to extend their gratitude to Essential Hospice and Dr. Chris Simpson.