Hershel L. Taylor, II, 68, of Portales, New Mexico passed away Monday, September 2, 2013 at his home. He was born on September 2, 1945 in St Joseph, Missouri, son of Betty and Hershel Taylor. He grew up in a military family, traveling the world. Hershel graduated from high school and immediately joined the US Army and served his country honorably. Hershel became a warrant officer Captain, learning to fly helicopters. He flew helicopters, ran many search and rescue missions, saving and helping many. Hershel served two years with distinction as an Army Helicopter pilot in Vietnam. For his service he was awarded the NDSM, GCM, ARAVBad, VSM, VCM w/ Dev 60 the AM, BSM and the ARCOM medals, and commendations. Upon leaving the military Hershel worked in retail and finally as a truck driver. Hershel was a quiet soul who loved his family and was always there to help. Hershel was preceded in death by his parents, Betty L. Taylor and Hershel L. Taylor and two sisters, Diana M. Westover and Connie K. Taylor. Survivors include six sisters, Linda Waters of Grayson, GA, Sharon Mayes of Sacramento, CA, Karen Brown of Topeka, KS, Jeanette Fowler of Loganville, GA, Patricia Shinouskis of Cottage Grove, MN, and Teresa Beres of Portales, NM and other nieces, nephews and friends.
The family will receive friends on Friday at 10:30 AM, with a funeral service to be conducted at 11:30. The interment will be at the Leavenworth National Cemetery, with Military honors, under the auspices of the United States Army.
Arrangements by the Rupp Funeral Home. Online condolence and obituary at www.ruppfuneral.com