Ronnie Gene Taylor

Ronnie (Ron) Gene Taylor, Lt. Colonel, US Air Force (Ret.), 86, of the Savannah Lakes Community in McCormick, SC, husband of Bobbie Opal Clark Taylor, passed away June 22, 2025, at Self Regional Healthcare in Greenwood, SC. He was born on December 4, 1938, in Oklahoma City, OK to the late Orville Leon and Leota Mae Tresner Taylor.

A proud 1957 graduate of Northwest Classen High School, Ron furthered his education at the University of Oklahoma before completing his studies at the United States Air Force Academy, Class of 1962, where he graduated after four years of rigorous training and received additional pilot training, at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, OK. Ron’s commitment to his country was evident having served with honor as a Lt. Colonel in the United States Air Force. He completed four six-month tours of duty during the Vietnam War, flying an impressive 119 B52 bombing missions, a testament to his bravery and skill as a pilot. He received numerous distinguished medals and honors throughout his military career, recognizing his exemplary service and dedication.

Following his retirement from the Air Force, Ron continued to contribute to society. He spent five years with the Army Times Publishing Company and shared his knowledge as an educator at George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College, each for a tenure of one year.

In addition to his professional pursuits, Ron was an active member of his community. He was a devoted member of McCormick United Methodist Church, participated in the United Methodist Men’s group, and was involved with the Emmaus Community. He took pride in being a leader within the ChristCare Small Group, where he fostered relationships and encouraged others in their faith journeys. At the time of his death, Wesley United Methodist Church in Evans, GA was Ron’s church home. Ron also often dedicated time helping with the animals at the McCormick Humane Society Shelter, reflecting his love and respect for all living beings.

His unwavering dedication to his family, his faith, and his country will be remembered and cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In addition to his parents, Ron was preceded in death by a grandchild, Lauren Stewart and a great-grandchild, Eris Wilson.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Bobbie; two sons, Steven Bradley Taylor (LaDonna) of Oklahoma City, OK and Mark Alan Taylor (Genevieve) of Ponca City, Oklahoma; daughter, Ronee Jean Taylor Jordan (Roy) of Coweta, OK; eleven grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren.

All services will be held in Arlington National Cemetery with full military honors at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family respectfully requests memorial contributions in memory of Ron, be sent to the Air Force Aid Society (AFAS.org) or Tunnels to Towers (t2t.org).

A message of condolence may be sent to the family by visiting www.harrisfuneral.com.

Harris Funeral Home & Cremation Services of Abbeville is assisting the Taylor family.