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William Raymond "Will" Taylor

Born: 9/26/1969
Died: 7/10/2026
Age: 56
Community: Durand, MI

William Raymond Taylor, known to all as Will, departed this life on July 10, 2026, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, humor, and a heart that gave freely to others. He was born on September 26, 1969, in Flint, Michigan, to the late William and Patricia (Armstrong) Taylor, and from his earliest days he carried within him a spirit both sturdy and bright, as though fashioned for labor, loyalty, and love.

In his younger years, Will was a man of great energy and athletic ability, and he found joy both in playing hockey and in watching the game. He was a member of the Durand Eagles Club, where his wit and easy manner surely won him many friends. Those who knew him well remember that he was very funny, deeply intelligent, and ever selfless, with a manner that could lighten a heavy room and a presence that could steady troubled hearts.

Will spent his life working with concrete, and he was, by his own proud account, a true “Cement Head.” He was an extremely hard worker all his life, and he gave himself to others with uncommon generosity. He was the sort of man who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, and he did so without expectation of praise or repayment. He was always helping someone, yet he would never ask for anything in return. His heart was large, his concern for others sincere, and his own needs were often set aside so that another might be made whole.

At a young age, Will was married to Rhonda Trevarrow-Taylor, and together they were blessed with a son, Nick. Though that marriage later ended in divorce, life granted him another chapter of companionship and family when he married Mary Beth Bentley, with whom he had a son, Nate. That union too ended in divorce, yet the bonds of fatherhood remained steadfast, and his love for his sons endured through every season of his life. In later years, he shared his days with his significant other and special friend, Angela Foster, who stood beside him through the last several years and helped him through many health problems with devotion and care.

He is survived by his sons, Nick Taylor and Nate Taylor, as well as his stepchildren, Elizabeth Maine and Joseph Maine. He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren, Drayden Taylor, Cashden Taylor, Austin, Teddy, Sarah Miller, Autumn and Abigail Fournier, who brought joy to his life. He is further survived by his aunts, Linda Schwartz and Monica Notzon, who remain to honor his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Barbara Taylor, and his stepdaughter, Angela Maine.

Though death has claimed his earthly form, the memory of Will shall not so easily fade, for men of such character leave traces that time cannot wholly erase. He was funny, intelligent, and selfless, and these were not mere words, but the very measure of the man. In the hearts of those who loved him, he shall remain as one who labored faithfully, laughed readily, and cared deeply. His life was a testament to quiet strength and generous spirit, and those who knew him shall long remember Will with affection, gratitude, and enduring love.

William's family is being served by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Durand Chapel. www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com
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  Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes - Durand Chapel
501 N. Saginaw St.
Durand, MI 48429

Phone: (989) 288-3106

Web Site: http://www.watkinsfuneralhomes.com

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Visitation
Date:   7/14/2026
Time:   -
 
Funeral Service
No Service

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