Raymond C. “Opie” Taylor Jr.

Raymond C. Taylor Jr. (Opie) age 50, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 in Canton, Ohio. Born on November 5, 1971, in Canton, Ohio. He served in the US Navy from February, 1991 through February, 1993. He was a member of Liberty Baptist Church in Massillon, Ohio for many years, serving in several areas throughout those years.

Most of all, he served our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ faithfully in many ways. He didn’t want recognition for himself…ever. He just wanted to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with any and everyone, which he did faithfully. He was an avid hunter and fisherman, which he greatly enjoyed with his son and grandson, as well as friends.

His brother-in-law, Chris wrote the following….

“Ray stood before me as a brother-in-law and as an elder. More importantly, as a mentor.  His presence was always known. He took center stage while in my company. I looked up to Ray as not only my brother-in-law, but a friend who thankfully shared his life, time, and lessons with me.   The lesson he taught me, we should cherish every friendship in this life, regardless of the seconds, minutes, or hours spent with one another. Slow down. Enjoy the space we spend together, the time, that moment or even better the moments together.

Ray, once told me “I never thought I would be in this position to speak for my dad.”  Well, Ray, I never thought I would ever be in the position to say these words. I wish I had said them,  at that moment, when you needed to hear them. I APPRECIATE YOU.

Our journey here is ravaged with many thoughts, meanings, emotions, triggers, happiness, and pain. Ray always lifted me up with his presence through stories of happiness. He told so many stories of family moments or vacations with his family. The love of his family was first and foremost in his life. But mostly, honesty.

I ask we all take a moment to speak honestly with each other. Speak with sympathy and empathy, while reminding ourselves as this journey here is short.

Love ya Ray, wish I had another chance to say this today. Until we meet again, I hope the fish are biting and your line does not snap. I’ll bring an extra pole and line.”

~Chris Cotterman

To call Ray a traveler and lover of nature, would be an understatement. Ray embraced our God’s beauty and seized every moment to lose himself in fishing and reflecting by the water. He only took what he needed and was known to host unforgettable fish fries and get-togethers. He loved bringing people together in fellowship and friendship. Always a servant, Ray took every opportunity to spread the gospel and lend a helping hand. Selfless service defined Ray. He always put others before himself; often at the detriment of his own well-being. Ray gave like no other and lived every day as if it were his last. He loved unconditionally, forgave with grace, and served wholeheartedly. Ray is at home in our Father’s arms and smiling upon us. Until we meet again.

He was preceded in death by his father, Raymond C. Taylor Sr., maternal grandparents, Bob and Mary Champion, and paternal grandparents, Raymond and Wilma Taylor.

He is survived by his wife, Teresa Taylor; mother, (Cheryl Champion)Taylor; son, Michael; grandchildren, Micah and Madelynn; stepdaughter, Christina; brother, Robert Taylor; sister, Tiffany (Chris) Cotterman; niece, Stephanie (Shawn) Bickel; nephews, Gary (G) Hawk and Robert Taylor Jr.; niece, Victoria Taylor; uncles, aunts, many cousins, as well as a few very good friends.

A Memorial Service will be held Thursday, May 12, 2022, 5:00 pm at Liberty Baptist Church, 2349 Southway St. SW, Massillon where the family will receive friends from 4:00 pm until the time of service.