Robert "Bob" Taylor, 77, of Farrell, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, May 3, 2024, in UPMC Horizon Hospital, Farrell.

Mr. Taylor was born on October 2, 1946, in Sharon, a son of the late Francis J. and Margaret "Peg" (Davis) Taylor. A lifelong area resident, Bob was a 1964 graduate of Farrell High School. Following high school, he honorably served his country as a ground mechanic in the U.S. Air Force. A proud veteran, he was the current Commander of the American Legion, Post 432, Wheatland, an officer for the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Post 6233, West Middlesex, and had a vital role in the Wheatland and West Middlesex Honor Guard.

Bob also served his local community with a 70-year commitment to the Wheatland Volunteer Fire Department, serving as Fire Chief for more than 40 years. In honor of his lifelong service, the building was named "Robert T. Taylor Fire Station." Bob was humbled when the Farrell School District named him the Volunteer Citizen of the Year in 2017.

He spent the majority of his working career as a diesel mechanic. Bob worked for the former Werner Continental Trucking Co., Wheatland and retired from Interstate Chemical, Hermitage.

Bob was of the Methodist faith and spent many years playing softball for the former Wheatland United Methodist Church.

When not volunteering, he loved working on his garden, shopping, making ceramics, and playing horseshoes and golf. Additionally, Bob will be remembered for his excellent cooking, some skills he acquired as a young man while working at the former West Hill Bakery.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, the former Deborah Longwell, whom he married on June 24, 1978; a brother, Ronald Taylor, Wheatland; a sister-in-law, Cindy Zagorski, Hubbard, OH; a brother-in-law, Gary Longwell and his significant other Frances Sherry, Farrell; two nieces, Courtney Kohler and Bonnie Silsbe; a nephew, Gary Longwell; and a Goddaughter, Kaoina Lites.

In addition to his parents, Bob was preceded in death by a brother, Donald Taylor; and a Godson, Matthew Zagorski.

The family suggests memorial contributions be directed to the Wheatland and West Middlesex Honor Guard, C/O J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., 1090 East State St., Sharon, PA 16146.

Calling hours will be 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday (05/07/2024) in J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc., Sharon.

Military honors will be rendered by the Wheatland and West Middlesex Honor Guard at 5 p.m. Tuesday.

Interment: Hillcrest Memorial Park, Hermitage.