Terry Lee Taylor

Terry Lee Taylor, a devoted husband, master outdoorsman, and a beloved "Papa" to many, passed away on March 19, 2026, at the age of 67. Born on September 26, 1958, in Borger, Texas, to Bob and Bobbie Taylor, Terry moved to Bartlesville as a child when Phillips Petroleum Company relocated his family. While he grew up in Bartlesville, Terry chose to plant his roots in Dewey, Oklahoma, where he built a life defined by hard work and a profound connection to the land. Terry’s life was anchored by his faith. He grew up in the church family of Virginia Avenue Baptist Church, and in his adult years, he found deep fellowship and community at Free Will Baptist. Terry was truly at home when he was out in the elements. His passion for the outdoors was forged early on, spending countless hours hunting at his grandparents’ farm in Shattuck, Oklahoma. That rugged landscape stayed with him his entire life. Terry was a true connoisseur of the sport; he had a deep appreciation for the craft of fine rifles and guns, and he took immense pride in his collection. He wasn't just a hunter or a fisherman; he was a student of the gear, the ballistics, and the quiet patience required to be successful. Above all, Terry was a mentor. His wife, Celia Taylor, worked hard alongside him to ensure he had the time and freedom to pursue these hobbies he loved so dearly. Because of that shared life and her support, he was able to become the mentor he was known to be. He was famous for his endless patience in teaching others the nuances of hunting and fishing. His influence was so profound that nearly every child who met him quickly claimed him as their own "Papa" or "Uncle." Because of his guidance, his legacy will be seen every time a line is cast or a sunrise is watched from a deer stand by those he taught. Terry is survived by his beloved wife, Celia Taylor. His memory lives on through his daughter, Leslie Taylor, and his granddaughter, Lillian Taylor Combs, who was the light of his life. He is also survived by his stepsons, Douglas Clark and Joey Clark. He leaves behind his Uncle and closest friend David Romine of Shattuck, Oklahoma and his two sisters, Roxanne King of Tulsa, OK, and Tonya Miller of Bartlesville, Oklahoma. His loss is also felt by a host of nieces, nephews,and cousins spanning from Tulsa to Celia’s family in Arkansas, along with the many "honorary" children and grandchildren who looked to him as a father figure. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Bobbie Taylor. The Hunter’s Home The sun has set on the golden fields, The long day’s hunt is done. The rifle is cleaned and laid to rest, With the setting of the sun. The woods are still, the waters calm, The trail has reached its end. He’s gone to walk a higher ridge, With every dog and friend. His legacy lives in the woods he loved, In the lessons that he gave. In every cast and every shot, And the memories we will save

Terry Lee Taylor

September 26, 1958 - March 19, 2026