Delbert Ray Taylor, born on September 21, 1938, in Hillister, Texas, passed away on May 14, 2025, at the age of 86 in Orange, Texas, surrounded by loved ones. Throughout his life, Delbert made a significant impact on both his family and community, exemplifying dedication, humor, and resolve in all his endeavors.
A master carpenter by trade, Delbert travelled across the country, overseeing construction jobs where his expertise and craftsmanship flourished. He was known for his contributions to several local landmarks and camps at Toledo Bend, showcasing his skills and passion for building. In addition to his thriving career, Delbert was a founding member of the Little Cypress Volunteer Fire Department, reflecting his commitment to serving his community and helping others.
Delbert's personality was characterized by his sense of humor, strong work ethic, and natural storytelling ability. He had an innate ability to engage those around him, always finding joy in his projects and the stories they inspired.
His personal interests included drinking coffee on his back porch, and spending time with his family, particularly his grandkids and great grandkids, who brought him joy.
He served in the Army, stationed in Bordeaux, France, an experience that broadened his horizons. Delbert was a cornerstone of strength and warmth within his family, frequently sharing his experiences and wisdom.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John D. and Sudie Taylor; his sons-in-law, Luther Bennett, and Rusty Wolfford; his sister, Orvie Fontenot; and his brothers-in-law, Ernest Fontenot, Jack LeBaron, and William Jardell.
Those left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 43 years, Georgia Taylor; his children, Stephanie Nichols and husband, Jeremy, Shannon Bennett, Deborah Wolfford, John Dee Taylor and wife, Lisa, Brian Morrow and wife, Beverly, and Carolyn Dempsey and husband, Steve. His grandchildren, Christen Trahan and husband, Brandon, Brittany Bingham and husband, Jesse, Morgan Womack and husband, Landon, Ashleigh Helton and husband, Chad, Katy Edgerly and husband, Aaron, Sydney Taylor, Jordan Bennett and wife, Kristin, Malanna Dial and husband, Matthew, Kelby Simpson and wife, Tana, Seth Dempsey and wife, Layla, Taylor Dempsey, Amanda Green and husband, Devin, Blane Morrow and wife, Celsie, Brandon Morrow, and Gracelyn Burks and husband, Bryant; his 25 great-grandchildren; his 2 great-great-grandchildren; his sisters, Jane LeBaron, and Loretta Hinton and husband, Kenneth; sisters-in-law, Peggy Henry, and Cathie Lowry and husband, Tommy; along with numerous nieces, nephews and other loving family.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jordan Bennett, Chad Helton, Kelby Simpson, Seth Dempsey, Blane Morrow and Brandon Morrow.
Funeral services will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, May 19, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas. Officiating will be Reverend Jeff Bell of Southeast Texas Hospice. Burial will follow at Wilkinson Cemetery in Orange, Texas.
Visitation will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., Sunday, May 18, 2025, at Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas.