Gaylord Ivan Taylor, 88, of Fairfield, Illinois, passed away on June 21, 2026.

Gaylord was born at home in Sims, Illinois on January 17, 1938, to Arthur and Jueneta (Atkinson) Taylor. He was a teacher, administrator, and coach for over 35 years at numerous schools in the area (Geff, Merriam, Center Street and New Hope), Outside of work, Gaylord was part owner of Allstar Sports and owner of Gaylord Taylor Specialty Advertising. He enjoyed playing and singing with his family at churches, fairs, and festivals. He was a member of several area gospel groups, and in the last few years he sang and told the occasional joke at the Edgewood Opry. Gaylord attended the New Hope General Baptist church and taught Sunday School for many years.

Gaylord cherished his family. He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Joyce (Ivers), three children, Kent (Laura) of Richardson, TX, Krista (Mark) of Murfreesboro, TN, and Sherri (Tim) of Wichita, KS, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Sue (Medder) Musgrave.

A celebration of life service will be held at 1 PM on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Johnson & Vaughn Funeral Home with burial in Maple Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 11 AM until the time of service at the funeral home.

A special thank you to the caregivers and staff at Brookstone Estates, Fairfield Senior Living, and Residential Hospice for their compassionate care to Gaylord and his family.

Memorials may be made to the New Hope General Baptist Church and will be accepted at the Johnson and Vaughn Funeral Home.