Clyde Charles Taylor

Clyde Taylor, a lifelong resident of Santa Cruz County, peacefully passed away the afternoon of May 18th at the age of 88 with family at his side. Clyde spent his teenage years through 1977 residing on property once known as the Alberta Ranch, a part of the original Rodriguez Rancho, on 7th Avenue just off Capitola Road, which later became Taylor Lane. Starting into business with his father plowing fields with a horse, he later purchased a tractor and dump truck and was involved in working the logging operations up Gazos Creek in the 1940's. Clyde then settled into business as Clyde Taylor Excavating. In the 1950's and 60's, Clyde graded many of the lots for early subdivisions in the area, including Westlake, Rolling Woods, and in Carbonero Estates. A family picnic at Gazos Creek is when Clyde met May Goody who was invited by Clyde's older brother, George. Clyde took May for a ride on his tractor and love blossomed. They were married December 31st, 1950 in a double wedding ceremony with May's older sister, Betty, and Clyde's best friend, Homer Richardson. Five years later, Clyde and May welcomed their first daughter, Cathy (Turpen), and another five years later, Carol (Newberry). Clyde loved to take his family on road trips and many camping trips. Clyde was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Ethel Taylor, and his three older brothers, George, Harry Jr. and Earl. Clyde is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, May Taylor, daughters Cathy Turpen of Aptos, Carol Newberry of Santa Maria, their husbands, and grandchildren Tracy Turpen, Evan Turpen and Taylor Newberry. The family would like to thank the nurses and caregivers at Valley Haven Assisted Living and Driftwood Healthcare Center. Private interment will take place at Holy Cross Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer's Association, 402 E. Plaza Dr., Carterville, IL 62918.