Willard Haldean Taylor

Willard Haldean Taylor, of Ozark, was born June 16, 1923 to Jesse and Grace Taylor of Chestnutridge, MO. They later moved to Nixa. He departed this life at St. John"�s Hospital, Sunday, February 20, 2011. Willard was a World War II Navy Boatsman"�s Mate. He was a member of Prospect Baptist Church and served as a deacon and Sunday School teacher for many years until his health prevented him from attending. He enjoyed the outdoors, fishing, various sports, and following the St. Louis Cardinals and MSU Bears. He was "Papaw"� to his grandkids and had a great love for all animals. He worked in the oil fields while residing in Lompoc, CA, and upon his return to the Ozarks, he worked as a meat cutter. He was a very kind and gentle man and always greeted everyone with a smile. Willard is survived by his loving wife, Vonda, of 63 years. Together they have one son, Steven Willard and wife Peggy, Nixa; two grandchildren, Timothy and wife Kristin, Nixa, and Melissa Fielder and husband J.D., Springfield; great-grandchildren, Adalyn Wynn Taylor and Macklin Dean Fielder; step-great-grandchildren, Trevin and Sayer Tindall and Lindsey Prince; sister-in-law, Janette McCafferty, Springfield; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by an infant son, Chris, two brothers, Frank and Oliver and a sister, Irene Massey. Visitation will be 5:00 "� 7:00 PM Tuesday in Adams Funeral Home, Ozark. Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Wednesday, February 23, in the funeral home, with burial following in McCoy Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Prospect Baptist Church or to the charity of your choice.