Obituary of Robert Taylor
Robert Taylor peacefully gained his wings on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital, surrounded by the love of his wife, family and friends. Robert was born July 5, 1944, to the late Janet Williams. He was raised by his grandmother, the late Willie Mae Taylor (Martin). While little is known about Robert’s early childhood, the life he built was defined by faith, hard work, compassion, and love for others.
A well-travelled individual, Robert spent time living in numerous locales prior to settling in Rochester, New York. They included: Belle Glade, Florida; Greensboro, North Carolina; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and others. It was in Rochester, NY where Robert met the love of his life, Sharon Taylor (Bouie). The two were married in 2003 and shared 23 beautiful years of marriage filled with love, laughter, family, and cherished memories. Robert dedicated his entire working career to the trucking industry and retired from New Penn Trucking in 2005. An entrepreneur in his own right, Robert owned and operated N-Y-T Mini Market for seven years.
Robert was a sports enthusiast, an interest which led him to become the first black baseball coach in Rochester, NY. He enthusiastically shared his talent as he coached the High Hat Lounge and E&K Lounge, in addition to a women’s softball team.
Robert’s love for the Lord was undeniable. As a faithful and devoted member of Abundant Life Faith Ministry, he served in the transportation ministry, driving the church van for many years. He also helped pick up food donations for community food distributions. Serving others brought him great joy, and he never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Spending quality time with family and friends also brought Robert great satisfaction. He had a personality that could light up any room he entered. Robert was known for speaking his mind, keeping it real, and making people laugh with his unforgettable sense of humor. He made everyone feel welcome. In his pastime, he enjoyed playing cards and poker, watching television from the comfort of his home, traveling, spending time with family, and sharing stories. Robert’s presence had a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. To many, he was simply “That Guy”—a provider, protector, friend, and someone you could always count on. Robert loved football, and he loved his Buffalo Bills!
Robert is predeceased by his daughter, Regina Gibson; his great-grandchildren, Baby Cherry and Cherry Lee; his mother, Janet Williams; his mother-in-law, Voncil Bouie; his grandmother, Willie Mae Taylor (Martin); brothers, Albert Williams and Charles Williams; brothers-in-law, Nate Bouie and Lester White; sister-in-law, Wanda Bouie; and his long-time friends, Thomas Haizen and Peter Schlendorn.
He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving wife, Sharon Taylor; his sons: Robert Gibson, Nathaniel (Melanie Bowman) Taylor, Casan Outing, Irvin Rackard, Russell Gibson, and Romegeno Hardaway II; his daughters: Patrina Williams, Kishun Gause, Andrea Pace, Jaqaunda Eatmon, Shadella Gause, Rhonda Byrd, Latonya (Rhondell) Williams, and Brenda Hardaway; his Godson, Edward Hamilton; his grandchildren: Shantaijah Watson, Marquise Hodrick, Natalie Taylor, Durrell Ross, Chastity Gibson, Robert Gibson Jr, Taylen Gibson, Tyler Gibson, Jamyiah Jackson, A’shanti Rivers, Kamari Outing, Azylah Outing, Harlym Eatmon, Elisha Rackard, James Ross, LaRhon Williams, Sydney Williams, Tyrell Hardy, Kisha Hardy, Jaheem Hardy, Shakima Torres, Brett Harrington, Jahmahl Pardner, Gregory Pardner Jr., Legend Williams, Romengeno Hardaway lll, and Azai Hardaway; his great-grandchildren, Devine Cherry and Saniah Gibson-Woods; and his brother, Vernon Dixon. His memory will always be dear to his host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, church family, and dear friends who will forever cherish his love, laughter, and legacy, including long-time friends: Art Robinson, Eddie Russell, Clarence Lovett, Marvin Hodrick, and Jack Cook.
A Celebration of Robert’s life will be held on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Abundant Life Faith Ministry, 83 Whitney Street, Rochester, NY at 11:00 a.m., with visitation held from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 11am (Visitation 10-11am) at Goodwill Missionary Baptist Church, 111 Clifton St., Rochester. Interment: Riverside Cemetery.
Monika Sheree Rucker was born on December 3, 1998, in Rochester, New York, to Ms. Sylvia Sullivan and Mr. Sam Rucker. Brother Archie and Sister Michelle Brundidge raised Monika.

Marcia Sandlin of Rochester, New York, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2026. Born on November 29, 1970, in Fort Pierce, Florida, and raised in Rochester, New York, Marcia was known for her bold spirit, warm heart, and deep love for family. Despite life’s challenges, she faced each day with courage, determination, and joy.



James A Dengler, 69, of Rochester, NY.
Marianne Pilotte