Troyce Wesley Taylor, 88, died Thursday, June 27, 2024. He was born on July 15, 1935, in Center, to Pauline Clarke and Alvin Ellis Taylor.
Troyce W. Taylor’s life journey was marked by unwavering dedication to his country, community, and cherished family. Enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1955, Troyce proudly served for three years, a period that saw the joyous arrival of his first-born daughter, Rita, during his station in Anchorage, Alaska.
Following his military service, Troyce returned to Orange, Texas, before settling in Evadale in 1959, where he and Rose raised their family. Over the years, their family grew with the additions of daughters Paula and Phyllis, followed by son Sonny and youngest daughter Amanda. For 38 years, Troyce dedicated himself to the Evadale community at the paper mill until his well-earned retirement.
An active pillar of the Evadale community, Troyce’s impact extended far beyond his professional achievements. He was deeply involved in various boards and organizations, including the Evadale ISD Board of Trustees, the Eastex Federal Credit Union (where he served for over 60 years), and the Jasper County Appraisal District board. His leadership as the Jasper County Precinct Chairman exemplified his deep-rooted civic engagement. Troyce’s commitment to community service was exemplary, leaving a lasting impact on all those he served alongside.
In addition to his professional and community achievements, Troyce had a passion for life’s simple pleasures. He enjoyed playing card games and dominoes, often engrossed in solving puzzles that tested his sharp mind. An avid follower of the stock market, Troyce eagerly shared his financial insights with anyone eager to learn. Sports held a special place in his heart, particularly his unwavering support for the Houston Astros and Dallas Cowboys, whose games he rarely missed from the comfort of his favorite recliner. His involvement in coaching Little League and steadfast attendance at his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren’s sporting events underscored his enduring love for community and family.
Above all, Troyce cherished his family. His happiest moments were spent surrounded by his loved ones, reveling in the lively gatherings and friendly competition that defined Taylor family gatherings.
Troyce W. Taylor’s legacy is one of profound service, love, and community spirit. His kindness, wisdom, and boundless generosity will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Troyce leaves behind a rich canvas of memories and a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Survivors include his wife, Rose Marie Taylor; children, Rita Wilkins; and Paula Dunigan and her husband, Joe, all of Evadale; Phyllis “FeFe” Austin of Flower Mound; Troyce Wesley “Sonny” Taylor Jr. and his wife, Erin, of Lumberton; and Amanda Rose McLaughlin and her husband, Jason, of Flower Mound; grandchildren, Jason Wilkins and his wife, Leslie; Holli Farias and her husband, Roy, all of Evadale; Aubrey Wilkerson and his husband, Tim Wei, of Austin; JoLee Kolander and her husband, Cody, of Sour Lake; Blane Dunigan, of Evadale; Heather Austin, of Flower Mound; Macy Taylor, of Austin; Garrett Taylor and Cannon Taylor, both of Lumberton; Hannah McLaughlin, Hailey McLaughlin, and Emma Mclaughlin, all of Flower Mound; great grandchildren, Paxson Farias, Livi Farias, Jase Wilkins, Bella Wilkins, Cora McCall, Clara Kolander, and Taylor Kolander; and sister, Wanda Biershwale of Lampassas.
Troyce is preceded in death by his parents and sons-in-law, J.D. Wilkins and Gary Sibley.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mark Catholic Church, 905 North 9th Street, Silsbee, or to Evadale Independent School District’s Athletics Department via Eastex Federal Credit Union Evadale, TX, (409)276-2525; Account Number: 37026. Existing Eastex members may contact the call center to request a transfer into the memorial account.
For those that have requested a more convenient method of payment, please send Venmo payments to @Aubrey-Wilkerson-2 and include “In Memory of Troyce Taylor” in the memo. Please also include either “church” or “athletics” to distinguish which destination your contribution will go to.
A gathering of Mr. Taylor’s family and friends will be 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m., Sunday, June 30, 2024, at Broussard’s, 490 Cemetery Road, Silsbee. A memorial mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Monday, July 1, 2024, at St. Mark Catholic Church, 905 North 9th Street, Silsbee. His cremation arrangements will be handled through Broussard’s Crematorium.
