Ray Taylor Sr., 75, of Des Moines, Iowa, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 31, 2026. Memorial services are pending.

Ray was born on April 18, 1951, in Seattle, Washington, to Delton and Thelma (Horton) Taylor. He was raised in Ottumwa, Iowa, where he attended Ottumwa High School and graduated with the Class of 1969. Following graduation, Ray proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. After returning home, he worked for Milwaukee Railroad in Iowa for 15 years. Then he began a career as a meat cutter, a profession he dedicated many years to before retiring in 1993.

A man who appreciated the simple joys in life, Ray was a faithful member of Christ Church in Ottumwa. He loved spending time outdoors fishing and hunting, enjoyed watching classic westerns, and was an enthusiastic fan of the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Chicago Bears. Above all, Ray treasured the time he spent with his family. Ray especially enjoyed watching his daughter play softball and going to game nights with his friends. 

Those left to honor and cherish his memory include his children, Ashley (Jerrod) Thompson and Ray (Kibbon) Taylor; grandchildren, Addison Strovers, Bella Strovers, Jameson Thompson, Sidney Tompson, Raynen Taylor, and Jaden Roberts; siblings, Robert Taylor, Kathy Stouthammer, and Susan Sylvester; former wives, Donna Mills and Deborah Starbuck; along with several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Delton and Thelma Taylor, and his sisters, Joy Fenton and Bonnie Hazelwood.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Ray's family.

Hendersons Funeral & Cremation Care has been entrusted with caring for Ray and his family during this difficult time.