Darrel Taylor

Darrel Junior Taylor, age 89, of Granite City, Illinois, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Granite Nursing and Rehab. He was born on May 24, 1936, in Myrtle, Missouri, the beloved son of the late Carlson Oliver Taylor and Edna Jessie (Campbell) Taylor.

On August 10, 1956, Darrel married the love of his life, Mary Deane Ditto, and together they built a life rooted in devotion, laughter, and family until her passing on November 5, 2003. Years later, Darrel was blessed to find love again with Carol Bladdick, with whom he shared many happy years until her passing on November 12, 2019.

Darrel retired from Custom Packaging in St. Louis, Missouri (formerly Vess Cola) after many years of dedicated and dependable service. Known as a true jack of all trades, Darrel could fix, repair, or build just about anything he set his mind to. One of his most-loved family stories was how he once fashioned a custom pin on the fly in the back of his truck, just to get Lisa’s pony safely home. That was Darrel, resourceful, determined, and always ready to help.

He found joy in the outdoors, especially fishing and spending time surrounded by nature. But above all else, Darrel cherished time with his family and his faithful yorkie, Sophie. He loved life, loved to laugh, and had a quiet way of making those around him feel cared for. His steady presence, warm smile, and generous heart will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

In addition to his parents and wives, Darrel was preceded in death by his siblings, Gladys Phillips Waymon, Una Kerley, Gale Taylor, Virginia Taylor, Geneva Peters Toy, Robert Taylor, and Treva James.

He is survived by his loving children, Diane (Bryan) Boston, Lisa (Wilard) Barton, and Gary (Brenda) Taylor, all of Granite City, Illinois; his cherished grandchildren, Amanda (Joe) Kremers, Erica Taylor, Jared Boston, Samantha Barton, Tabitha (Justin) Nordike, and Sarah (Jordan) Parker; and his treasured great-grandchildren, Taylor Barton, Easton Nordike, Titan Parker, Athena Parker, Rhea Parker, Dakota Kremers, Rhilye Kremers, Bradyn Kremers, Bentlee Wiesehan, and Memphis Taylor. Darrel is also survived by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

In celebration of Darrel’s life, visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at Irwin Chapel in Granite City, Illinois, with funeral services to follow at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Pastor Mark Maynard. Darrel will be laid to rest beside his beloved Mary at Sunset Hill Memorial Estates in Glen Carbon, Illinois.

Memorial donations may be made to Renee’s Rescue, honoring Darrel’s love for animals. Donations will be accepted at the funeral chapel. His beloved yorkie, Sophie, is now being lovingly cared for by Renee.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.irwinchapel.com.

Obit Provided By:
Irwin Chapel Funeral Home