Carl Wayne Taylor, 74, of Mathews County, passed away peacefully, after a long illness, on Sept. 5, 2015, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Richmond, Va. in 1941, and was preceded in death by his parents, Carl Otis Taylor and Etta Earnhardt Taylor; by his brother, Dennis Michael Taylor, and by his wife of 43 years, Joyce Beasley Taylor.

He is survived by his second wife, Christine Bridge Taylor; her son, William James Bridge of New York City; her daughter, Allison Bridge Robins and her husband Joe of Mathews, and their sons James Walter and Jason Allan Robins. He is also survived by his son, Daryl Wayne Taylor of Richmond, wife Mary Fisk-Taylor, and their children, Alexandra Briggeman Taylor and Warren Jackson Taylor.

Wayne spent his early years working on the family farm. After graduation from New Kent County High School, he began a successful career in machine tool sales, becoming a principal in the Davis-Taylor-Forster Machine Tool Company in Richmond. His integrity and negotiation skills led to recognition throughout the industry. One of his favorite sayings was “if it is to be, it’s up to me.” He and his wife retired to Mathews County several years ago.

He was active in community affairs and was awarded a lifetime membership in the Virginia Jaycees. He restored a 1957 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible show car, and was happiest working, being with family, and playing golf with friends. His sense of humor, his loyalty and life example will live on in our memories.

A memorial service and reception will be held on Sunday, Sept. 20, from 4-6 p.m. at Nelsen Funeral Home, 4650 S. Laburnum Avenue, Richmond, Va. 23231.

The family would like to extend their deep gratitude to the nurses, staff and hospice counselors at Riverside Mathews Convalescent Center.

In lieu of flowers, consider supporting a Parkinson’s disease research organization.