Gary Don Taylor

Gary Don Taylor "Don", born in Madera, California, on June 1, 1947, passed away on April 1, 2025. He grew up in Chowchilla, California, where he enjoyed riding his motorcycle and occasionally getting into trouble. Don began his career painting houses and later advanced to becoming a general contractor, building beautiful custom homes in elite neighborhoods in the Central Valley of California. He also owned a successful car dealership in California.

In 1997, Don moved to Ada, Oklahoma, to be near his brothers and nephew. There, he and his nephew Jerry Taylor started Taylor Custom Homes, where they built stunning homes and undertook remodel projects. Don loved watching football with family and friends and occasionally betting on a game or two.

Despite struggling with dyslexia, Don excelled in other ways. He had a remarkable ability to calculate numbers in his head and strategically think through business scenarios before proceeding with opportunities. His business acumen and success were truly impressive.

As retirement drew near, Don revived old hobbies he enjoyed, such as building RC airplanes and restoring old cars and eating fine dining with family and friends.  His weaknesses taught his family as much as his strengths did, his strengths were something they could only hope to come close to achieving. His family loved him, and he will be greatly missed.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Gladis Gertrude Simms Taylor and Ambrose Chester Taylor; his brothers, Carlos, Bobby, and AC; and his sister, Loretta Parks. He is survived by his sister, Trisha West of Hughson, California; his children, Susan and Eric Henderson of Ada, Gary and Kim Taylor of Ada; his nephew, Jerry and Roxanne Taylor of Ada; his grandchildren, Justin and Kaylen of York, Nebraska, Kyle and Cory Rodrigues of Ada, and Brooklyn and Alex Wolkski of Dallas, Texas. He is also survived by his three great-grandchildren, Hayden, Reese, and Augie.

Don will be remembered for his entrepreneurial spirit, his love for family and friends, and his passion for building beautiful homes. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and success. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the Criswell Funeral Home Chapel; Pastor Philip Morris will officiate.  Lunch will be served at The Venue on Main, 116 W Main St, Ada, immediately following the service.

The family asks that no flowers be sent.