PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Russel Allen Taylor Sr., 88, formerly of Pittsfield died Saturday, January 19, 2019, at Hillcrest Commons, with his daughter, Sandra, at his side. 

Born in New Haven, Conn., on September 5, 1930, the son of Paul B. Taylor Sr. and Margaret Thelma Smith Taylor, he was a graduate of New Haven schools. He served in the United States Army.

While in New Haven, he was the owner of Taylor’s Watch Repair. After moving to Pittsfield in 1972, he was employed as a Tool Grinder by Beloit Corporation until 1984. He then opened his own mail order business. 

He enjoyed going for car rides and purchasing scratch tickets. 

Mr. Taylor's wife, the former Emma M. Lewis, died March 18, 1979. 

Mr. Taylor is survived by two daughters, Sandra A. Taylor and Diana L. Taylor, both of Pittsfield; a son, Robert W. Taylor of Pittsfield; two grandsons, Vincent A. Taylor and Julian A. Bolden, both of Pittsfield; three great-grandchildren, Raychelle, Anthony and Dashon; five great-great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was pre-deceased by his son, Russell A. Taylor Jr., on February 26, 2017.

Funeral notice: Funeral services will be held Monday, January 28, 2019, at noon at Dery Funeral Home, 54 Bradford Street, Pittsfield. Calling hours will precede the service beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will military honors will follow in Pittsfield Cemetery.