Ralph Taylor, 89, of East Hartford passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 11, 2024.
He was born February 16, 1935 in Boston, Mass, the son of Harold Dean Taylor and Eleanor (Springer) Taylor. Ralph was raised in Hancock, Maine and later moved to East Hartford. His life was marked by hard work, kindness, and a deep love for those around him.
As a Marine stationed in Japan, he served his country with pride. After his service, he met and married the love of his life Rhoda (Farnham) Taylor in 1964 and began building their family. They were happily married for 60 years. During that time, he found his true calling as a firefighter for the Town of East Hartford, where he spent decades building lifelong bonds with his colleagues at Company Three. He always considered Company Three’s his second family. His unyielding work ethic and good-natured spirit made him a beloved member of that “second family”. Years after his retirement the guys still refer to the “Taylor hour” as their inside joke.
Ralph’s passing marks the end of an era, but his warmth, generosity, and laughter will continue to live on in the hearts of his family, friends, and fellow firefighters.
After retirement, he was fortunate to spend winter months in Stuart, Florida on Hutchinson Island where he enjoyed the warm weather and beautiful surroundings.
We will forever treasure the memories of backyard pool parties and summers spent traveling to Grammy’s camp in Ellsworth, Maine. Above all, we will miss his infectious smile, his laughter, and the cherished childhood stories he shared with us.
Ralph is survived by his four children: Lynn Broden and her husband David of Colorado Springs, CO; Tracy Hains and husband Michael of West Hartford; Jeffrey Taylor and wife Lucy of Coventry and Cynthia Turner and husband David of Charlotte, NC. He loved and was so proud of his seven grandchildren: Rachel, Mick, Jenna, Olivia, TJ, Ethan and Mia. He also leaves behind his sisters Della Mitchell and Diane Tamiso.
He was preceded by his brother, Stanley Taylor and sister, Judy Ward.
Following the family’s wishes, Ralph will be cremated, and services will be held privately.
