George M. Taylor, Jr. ’81 died on April 15, 2024, in Calais, Maine.
(The following was provided by Bangor Daily News in April 16, 2024:)
George M. Taylor, Jr. ’81
Calais – Dr. George M. Taylor Jr., 65, passed peacefully at his home in Calais, Maine, on April 15, 2024, surrounded by family following his courageous eight-year long battle with Glioblastoma. He was born on November 10, 1958, to George and Jean Taylor, Sr., in Calais. George had an adventurous childhood growing up exploring the woods along the St. Croix River and causing mischief at his father’s store, Taylor’s Furniture.
Upon graduating from Calais High in 1977, he continued his education at Bowdoin College (Class of 1981) where he was a proud member of Theta Delta Chi fraternity with his sights set on an optometric career. While enrolled in classes at New England College of Optometry (Class of 1985), he married the love of his life, Regina (Wood), on June 26, 1982. With multiple diplomas in tow, he practiced in Augusta, Maine, and Dover, New Hampshire, before opening York Family Eyecare, where he found success from 1987-1996. In 1994, he found his true calling after returning home and opening Calais Family Eyecare where he skillfully served the Downeast region until his untimely retirement in 2016.
In 2016, he received what, for most, would be a devastating brain cancer (Glioblastoma) diagnosis. At the time, he was told he would struggle to walk again following the surgery, but he refused to accept that. He responded resiliently and determined; not only walking but even continued to play basketball while living an active lifestyle. George will be remembered by widespread friends for his deep love of basketball, passion for continued education, desire to travel, his wit and comedic relief, as he would often quip he was “the funniest guy he knew.” He seemed to have the ability to do it all and, even when his schedule appeared hectic, family always came first; particularly in supporting his son as a youth coach, scout leader, and their shared favorite, playing or watching hoops.
George is survived by his loving wife of forty-two years, Regina (Calais); only son, Chris and wife, Elizabeth, (Indianapolis, IN); brother-in-law, John Wood (Milltown, ME); and cousin, Norm ,and wife, Karen Tarbell (Ruckersville, VA