Marion Earl “Bird” Taylor

Marion Earl “Bird” Taylor of Eureka, died Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at Greenwood County Hospital in Eureka, at the age of 86. Earl was born August 15, 1937, in Greenwood County, Kansas, the son of William Earl and Hazel Lavone (Lee) Taylor. He attended local schools, and graduated from Tonovay High School.

Following graduation, he worked at different jobs before settling at Russell & Sons Construction where he worked in heavy construction. He later went to work for Greenwood County until he retired. Earl also farmed, and owned Taylor Liquor Store for a time. In his retirement, he was an avid Harley rider.

He was a member of Climax Masonic Lodge 411, VFW Auxiliary of Emporia, Sons of the American Legion of Emporia, and American Legion Riders of Emporia.

He is survived by his long-time companion, Luann Weatherbee, of the home; three children: Rick Taylor and fiancée Leslie McCoy of Valrico, FL; Janet Cummings and husband, William Winkler of Costa Rica; and Barb and husband, Rick Stout of Eureka; two step-daughters: Kim Weatherbee and Mona Vinson, both of Eureka.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and a sister, Truda Melton.

Cremation has been effected. Private family services will take place at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the Post 5 American Legion Riders. Contributions may be sent in care of Koup Family Funeral Home, PO Box 595, Eureka, KS 67045, which is overseeing arrangements. Condolences may be left for the family online at koupfunerals.com.