Tom Taylor emigrated from England, founded Star Used Tire

William Thomas Taylor, 85, of Rockton, was born in Worcester, England on May 21, 1937. He was united in marriage to Patricia Gaultry on September 8, 1956. Before emigrating to the United States in 1969 with his wife and four sons, Tom was employed as a lorry (truck) driver at Lamb's Moving Company and served in the British Army in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers Corps.

Tom died August 23, 2022, in his home in Rockton, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom founded a family company, Star Used Tire Disposal, which was a pioneer in its industry. He was a kind and gregarious man, with a tender heart and a quick wit - he always had a one liner. His smile and sense of humor will be greatly missed. His niece says he was always "slightly sarcastic" but "one of the most incredible men I've ever know." Wayne Bates says, "He worked every day until he was 80 years old and was mad when he couldn't do it any longer." At the funeral, Wayne told a story about Tom buckling a deer head into the seat as his passenger when driving it to Roscoe.

Subscribe to our free newsletter for local Rockton news.

Tom is survived by his best friend and wife, Pat Taylor; children, Rick (Karin), Tom (Leslyn), Adrian Harry, Stuart (Darlene) Taylor; grandchildren, Steve (Judy) Taylor, Holly (Justin) Winch, Justine Taylor; great-grandchildren, Alec Taylor, Destiny Taylor, London Winch, Gabriella Winch, Rakiya Mayes, Amari Mayes, Maverick Taylor; sisters-in-law, Sheila Bates and Daphne McNames; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and a circle of extended family.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother Alec Taylor; sister-in-law Gillian Taylor; and brother-in-law John Bates. Tom's family is grateful for the loving care provided by his niece Chris Robinson and great-niece Nikki LeFever.

Visitation was Monday, August 29, 2022 at 10 a.m. at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, 2336 Freeport Rd. Rockton, followed by a funeral service livestreamed at 11 a.m., officiated by Pastor Bob Castro. Interment will be in Shirland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorials in Tom's memory may be made to the family. Grace Funeral & Cremation Services is assisting the family.