Wildray “Jodie” Taylor, 68, of Niles, went to be with the Lord on Friday, May 27, 2016 at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in Mishawaka, Indiana.

He was born on Jan. 17, 1948, in St. Louis, Missouri to the late Homer J. and Josephine A. (Seates) Taylor.

Jodie graduated from Brandywine High School and joined the Army in 1967, where he spent two years in Vietnam as an artillery advisor to Korean troops. He later furthered his education at DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois and Ivy Tech Vocational technical college earning a certification in Pneumatics and Hydraulics.

Following his education, Jodie took a position with O’Brien Paints where he supervised for many years. Most remember him as a man of few words who always left others with wisdom he gained, through life experiences.

He is preceded in death by his parents; Homer and Josephine Taylor, brothers; Richard Taylor, Charles Taylor and Donald Taylor, and sister; Diana Taylor-Wiley.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories to brother; Malcolm (Saundra) Taylor, of St. Louis, Missouri and sister; Carolyn (Allen) Taylor- Gary, of Benton Harbor, Michigan; special family members; Barbara (Daniel) Bradley and a host of loving nieces and nephews.

Those wishing to make a memorial contribution in Jodie’s memory may do so to the American Cancer Society.

A going home celebration will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, June 3, 2016, with a time of visitation one hour prior at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church 601 Ferry St., Niles. Interment will follow services at Fort Custer National Cemetery 15501 W. Dickman Road, Augusta, MI 49012.

Condolences and photos may be shared with his family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brown Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Niles.