Eric Taylor

Eric Leroy Taylor, 85, of The Village of Glenbrook, Florida, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026.

Born in Flint Michigan on November 19, 1940 to Delmer Leroy and Merle Elizabeth Taylor. Eric lived a life defined by dedication, leadership, and deep love for his family. After attending H.B. Plant High School in Tampa , he joined the Navy where he served on the U.S.S. Ranger in the South Pacific. After the Navy, he attended the University of South Florida before beginning a long and distinguished career with The Hershey Company. Over the course of more than three decades, Eric served in numerous roles including sales representative up to Divisional Director. His career began in Tampa, with stops in Long Island, Hershey, Chicago, and Atlanta. In 2002, he retired as the Midwest Division Director of Hershey Foods, U.S. Broker Sales in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Eric’s professional excellence was recognized and honored; he was a five-time recipient of the prestigious President’s Cup, a testament to his exceptional knowledge in sales and organization management, in which he led by example.

Eric was preceded in death by his beloved wife Susan Boatwright Taylor. Eric and Sue were wed in Tampa, Florida on February 15, 1963 and enjoyed 53 years of marriage and 3 children. Together, Eric and Susan shared a love of travel and adventure, enjoying many cruises and unforgettable journeys. Eric is also preceded in death by his parents and a sister Lana Kay McMaster.

He is survived by his son, Douglas Leroy (Tiffany) Taylor; his daughters, Laura (Eric) Baumgardner and Alicia (Jason) Smith; and his five cherished grandchildren: Andrew Knock, Megan Taylor, Alexa Baumgardner, Amanda Baumgardner, and Samantha Smith.

While living in Chicago, Eric enjoyed being a Boy Scout Troop Leader for 6 years. Eric also enjoyed volunteering his time at his grandson’s elementary school by being a tutor and reading to the class. In his retirement years, Eric embraced life in The Villages, where he formed lasting friendships and found great joy in the community. He could often be found on the golf course during the week, enjoying the game and camaraderie of his friends. Above all, he treasured the time spent with his grandchildren, especially during their visits to Florida.

Eric Leroy Taylor will be remembered for his warmth, his work ethic, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind.

There will be a visitation on Friday May 8, from 11-12pm, and a service starting at 12pm at Hiers-Baxley Buffalo Ridge in the Villages, FL.