Richard Taylor, 88, entered into eternal rest on February 10, 2026. He was born on July 15, 1937, in Prince George, Virginia, to the late Anthony and Rosebud Taylor. Richard was baptized at Harrison Grove Baptist Church and spent most of his adult life residing on Sunnyside Avenue in Hopewell, Virginia.

Richard was a devoted and hardworking man who dedicated more than 30 years of service to the Hercules plant before retiring. After retirement, he truly enjoyed the fruits of his labor, spending his time helping family, neighbors, friends, and even strangers. Above all, his greatest joy came from his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who were the love of his life.

Richard had a passion for cooking and gardening and possessed a special gift for growing flowers of every kind. He took immense pride in maintaining one of the most beautiful yards in the neighborhood. Affectionately known as "Dick," he was a sharp dresser, well known for his stylish suits, fancy shoes, and distinctive hats.

During the summer months, Richard could often be found purchasing fresh fish and vegetables to share with elderly neighbors and family members throughout the Hopewell community. Known for his generous spirit, he freely gave of his time and delighted in surprising others with food or small gifts. Richard never met a stranger and will long be remembered for his kindness, warmth, and generosity.

Richard was preceded in death by his brothers, Baby Berkley, Robert Wilbert, William Paul, John Louis, and Anthony "Stiffy" James, Jr.; and his sisters, Virginia Green and Mary Blanding.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory: two sons, Milton Taylor, Sr. (Lisa) of Prince George, Virginia and Maurice Taylor of Hopewell, Virginia; one daughter, Marlo Wilson of North Carolina; five grandchildren, Milton Taylor, Jr., Michael Taylor, Milisa Taylor, Raven Williams, and Monique Williams; six great-grandchildren, Mackenzie Taylor, Makayla Taylor, Jayah Taylor, Zariah Taylor, Juhrari McLaughlin, and Makai Williams; three sisters, Rosa Blanding, Dorothy Thorne and Patricia Robinson (Jerome); a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins; a "special" dedicated friend, Arletha Gilliam; and four devoted health care workers, Amelia Temple, Lisa Hartley, Phyllis Jones, and Andrea Hanlon; along with dedicated friends, Ann Hall, Maurice Bowman and Earline Allen.

Services will be held 1:00 P.M., Monday, February 23, 2026, in the Chapel of J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, Elder Carolyn Roach, eulogist. The interment to follow at the Harrison Grove Baptist Church Cemetery.

J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc., 102 South Avenue, Petersburg, VA, (804) 732-8911, www.jmwilkersonsince1874.com. Watch the funeral services live online on our J. M. Wilkerson Funeral Establishment, Inc. Facebook page or click here to view: https://vimeo.com/event/5743694?fl=so&fe=fs