Richard Alan Taylor, 68, of Maquon, Illinois, died at 7:04 p.m. Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at OSF St. Francis Medical Center, Peoria, Illinois.
Richard was born October 8, 1957, in Canton, Illinois, the son of Richard J. and Barbara E. (Bump) Taylor. Richard graduated from Galesburg High School in 1975 and went on to work at Galesburg Glass, completing an apprenticeship, becoming a certified glazer. He went on to work many years for his union, Painters District #30 and #581, retiring in 2012. Throughout his career, Richard also worked alongside his family on the family farm.
Richard married Kimberly Jean Hensley on September 23, 1989, at Coldbrook Christian Church, Cameron, Illinois. Richard is survived by his wife, Kimberly of Maquon; two sons, Adam Hensley and Colton (Lydia Griffith) Taylor both of Galesburg; and ten grandchildren. Richard is also survived by one brother, James Taylor of Rockford, Illinois; and four sisters, Linda Kidder and Debora (Duane) Swisher both of Galesburg, Julia Williams of Maquon, and Michelle (Charles) Mann of Chicago, Illinois. Along with his parents, Richard was preceded in death by one son, Shawn Hensley; and one sister, Laura Sue Taylor.
Richard served many years on the London Mills Volunteer Fire Department. He was an avid Minnesota Vikings fan, enjoyed listening to live music, and collected LP records. Richard was proud of the antique tractor he restored alongside his brother. But more than anything, Richard loved spoiling his grandchildren as often as he could.
Cremation will be accorded. A celebration of life will be Saturday, February 7, 2026, at the Thomas Legacy Center at Watson Thomas Funeral Home and Crematory, Galesburg, from 1 to 4 p.m. The family asks memorial contributions be directed to the London Mills Volunteer Fire Department or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at www.watsonthomas.com.
