Junius Lyman Taylor returned home to his Father in Heaven on March 17, 2014. His passing took place in Grant, Idaho, which he called home for all of his 92 years. Junius was born in a log cabin on October 18, 1921 to Rachel Field Taylor and Lyman Taylor Jr. He came into this world the 5th of 6 children. His two sisters were Verla & Bernice, and the three brothers Howard, Doyle and Clyde. He attended Grant Elementary School and Midway High School.
He met the love of his life Guenivere Crook Taylor when he was only 12 years old. After years of courting, he eventually talked her into marrying him. They were married in the Logan, Utah Temple on November 18, 1941. He told his children that they travelled to the Logan Temple in a terrible snowstorm and ran off of the road. It took a snowplow driver’s help to get to the temple on time.
They returned to Grant and moved into a newly-built, two room home with no plumbing or running water. They added many improvements over time, and remained in their beloved home for the next 72 years.
Junius and Gwen were blessed with 3 children: Terry J. (Terri) Taylor, of Ammon, Idaho; Richard Lyman (Jeanie) Taylor of Logan, Utah; Cindy Taylor (Dexter) Ball of Twin Falls, Idaho.
They raised their children on the family farm, where they were taught responsibility and the value of hard work. Junius participated in all of his children’s activities, including 4-H and Boy Scouts.
Together with Dean Gneiting, he purchased Grant Produce in 1964, and operated the warehouse for several years. Junius became well known during this time for his integrity, honesty and work ethic.
Junius felt a deep responsibility for the land that was his grandfather’s homestead and the community of Grant. He was a passionate farmer and loved to hunt and fish the surrounding area.
Later in life, he became a well-known Realtor, working for his nephew Randy Hix at American Heritage. He served on the planning and zoning board of Jefferson County for 13 years to protect this quality of life for future generations. He also served as a board member of the Burgess Canal Company.
He was an active member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, serving as Sunday School President, Young Men’s President, Elder’s Quorum President, Gospel Doctrine Teacher and in several bishoprics.
Junius is survived by his wife Gwen, his 3 children, 12 grandchildren and 30 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, sisters and great grandson Jordan Barney.
Junius was a hero to his children and grandchildren and has left a legacy for which his family will be forever grateful.
Funeral services will be held Saturday March 22, 2014 at 1:00 p.m. at the Grant LDS Church (3431 E. 100 N. Rigby, Id. The family will visit with friends on Friday March 21, from 7:00 to 8:30 pm at Eckersell Memorial Chapel in Rigby and on Saturday from 11:30 am to 12:45 pm at the church. Burial will be in the Central Cemetery, Grant, Idaho.
Dad, to know you is to love you. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.