Willis Harrison Taylor III "POPS", 66, A Combat Vietnam Veteran, a proud United States Marine, a loving husband, a loving father, a son, a brother, a friend, and our hero Willis "Bill" H. Taylor III of Alamogordo, New Mexico, previously of Pecatonica and Rockford, Illinois passed in the comfort of his home on November 22, 2012. Born July 17, 1946, in Rockford, son of Willis Harrison Taylor Jr and Doris Taylor. Willis joined the Marines on July 15, 1966, he was a marksman rifleman, Purple Heart, and Presidential Citation recipient. He also was one of the courageous Marines who charged Hill 881 and was referred to as one of the "Walking Dead." After Willis's combat days he returned to Rockford and attended college coursework in Engineering and many other trades such as a Journeyman Carpenter and Millwright. He married the love of his life Wanda Fay Morrison Czarnikow on October 19,
1979 Willis retired in Alamogordo, New Mexico in 2006, where he could ride his Harley any time of year. He truly enjoyed riding and he also rode for a cause. "Willie T" was SGT AT ARMS for the American Legion Patriot Rider. Willie T patriotically escorted the fallen and returning service members rain or shine. He looked forward to his annual Wounded Warrior Run or Legacy Runs to San Antonio, Texas and to Arizona as well. He was our warrior and will be dearly missed. He is survived by his wife, Wanda F. Taylor; children Teena M. Czarnikow, Tamma M Czarnikow, Wade D. Taylor, and Crystal N Taylor; furry sidekick, Rosie; grandchildren, Jessica(Caden)Turbeville, and Trenton D. Taylor; great grandchildren; Abegael Bustemante, Samantha and James Turbeville; mother, Doris Taylor; brothers, Henry and John Taylor; special friends, Pat Scherf and Rudy Sanchez; many nieces, nephews and numerous friends. Predeceased by his father, Willis H. Taylor Jr. In lieu of flowers, Please donate to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Direct Cremation will take place under the care of PCS Direct Cremation Services.