Odie Wayne Taylor

Odie Wayne Taylor, a beloved husband, father, and friend, passed away on August 8, 2025, in the hospital with his cherished wife of 42 years by his side. Born on March 10, 1938, in Emory, Texas, Odie grew into a man deeply rooted in his community and faith. He graduated from Emory High School before furthering his education at Tyler Junior College. He later became a renown welder.

Odie’s steadfast commitment to his work was matched by his dedication to his family. He was married for 42 years to Dorothy Stewart Taylor, and together with his wife, they shared a life filled with love and understanding. They often conversed about everything, as Odie believed that no decision should be made without their combined input. His loyalty extended beyond his familial ties, as he was a man of his word who never met a stranger.

A Army veteran, Odie carried the values of service and integrity throughout his life. His faith and commitment to Christianity were paramount, and he could often be found at church whenever he was able. Odie was not just a hard worker; he was also a storyteller, always ready to lend an ear or share a memory, making him a cherished presence among friends and family. Odie had a passion for simple joys, particularly plowing with a team of horses and enjoying family gatherings.

Odie Wayne Taylor is remembered fondly for his faithful and simple nature, his pride in his family being his proudest accomplishment. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness and strength that will live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Odie is survived by his wife, Dorothy Taylor; children, Richard Taylor and wife Donna, Leslie Taylor, Joy McCollum and husband Billy, Paula Pundsack and husband Sam, Mike Womack; grandchildren, Wayne, Amie, Johnny, Christie, Jeremy, Gidget, Jacqueline, Destanie, Chauncey, Roger, JR, Candice, Mike, Laura, Sammy, Sabrina, Stephanie, Jennifer, Holley, Michael, David, Al, Kristi, Jessica; and many great grandchildren and great- great grandchildren. Siblings, Lester Taylor and wife Deloris, Harrel Taylor, Lena Faye Nugent and husband Larry and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Odie is preceded in death by his parents, Otis Drayton Taylor and Eva Bell Latham Taylor; daughters, Sandra Wood and Brenda Womack; son, Al Tadlock; siblings, Curtis Lee Taylor and Lou Taylor Walthall.

Funeral services to honor Odie will be held at the Wilson - Orwosky Funeral Home in Emory, Texas. Visitation will take place on August 11, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, followed by a funeral service beginning at 2:00 PM. Interment will follow at Smyrna Cemetery at 3:00 PM. Odie’s spirit will continue to guide and inspire those he touched throughout his life. Reverend Byron George will be officiating. Serving as his pallbearers are Kelton Adams, Trenton Adams, Wayne Kirkpatrick, Roger Follis, John Weaver, and Joshua Mills. Honorary pallbearers are Mike Frost, Jeremy Humphries, Chris Adams and Sam Pundsack.