It is with both profound sadness and a celebration of a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Dr. Dennis R. Taylor, who left us on June 29, 2025, at the age of 72. A beloved husband, father, grandfather and dedicated anesthesiologist, Dennis made an indelible mark on the lives of those around him.
Born in Tyler, Texas, on September 5, 1952, to his loving parents Dennis Ritch and Dorothy Marie (Alam) Taylor, Dennis carried a zest for life that was truly contagious. His pursuit of knowledge and dedication to his craft were evident throughout his impressive academic and professional journey.
Dennis’s foundational years were spent at Lake Highlands High School in Dallas, Texas. He then continued his education at Texas A&M University, where he received a football scholarship to play defensive end and earned a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from 1971 to 1975, an early testament to his unwavering love for animals as he pursued his dream of working in medicine. His academic pursuits led him to the University of Arkansas, where he received a Master of Science in Natural Science from 1976 to 1977.
Dennis earned his Medical Doctor (M.D.) degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences from 1977 to 1981. He further specialized in his field, completing his Anesthesia Residency at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences from 1981 to 1984. This rigorous training prepared him for a distinguished career as an anesthesiologist in North Texas, where his compassionate care and animated charm brought comfort to tens of thousands of patients.
Beyond his professional life, Dennis’s heart belonged to his family and the thrill of the game. He was a devoted father who cherished his sons and adored his granddaughters. His passion for sports was legendary; whether it was cheering from the sidelines or calling the plays, Dennis was always in his element. More than just a fan, Dennis was a relentless coach for his sons and nephews, instilling in them not only the fundamentals of the game but also the values of dedication, perseverance, and strength, leading his teams to countless championships and even "Super Bowls" – victories etched in the memories of every player he mentored. He didn't just teach plays; he built character, fostered resilience, built confidence and reveled in every triumph, big or small, with unbridled enthusiasm.
Dennis found renewed happiness and companionship when he married Debbie Taylor on August 9, 2019, in McKinney, Texas. Their life together was filled with joy, laughter, and shared moments with family and friends for more than twenty years.
Dennis is survived by his wife, Debbie Taylor of McKinney, Texas; sons, Denny Taylor (Vanessa) of Denton, Texas, Chad Taylor (Rachel Scoggins) of Dallas, Texas, Troy Taylor of Dallas, Texas; granddaughters, Turner Farmer of North Carolina and Emmye Stewart of McKinney, Texas; bonus family, Amanda Rose (Rob) of Plano, Texas; Tiffaney Stewart (Darin) of McKinney, Texas; Angela Farmer (Justin) of Raleigh, North Carolina; sister, Kim McGehee (Jim) of Plano, Texas; nephews, Taylor McGehee (Brooke) of Dallas, Texas and Ben McGehee of Plano, Texas.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m., Sunday, July 6, 2025 at Turrentine-Jackson-Morrow Funeral Home, 2525 Central Expressway North, Allen, Texas 75013. The service will also be live streamed at TJMfuneral.com on Dennis’ obituary page by clicking on the following link: https://celebrationoflife.tv/blog/dr-dennis-r-taylor. Interment will be held at Ridgeview Memorial Park following the service.
The family will receive friends during a visitation on Thursday, July 3, 2025 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the funeral home.