Dr. Richard (Ric) Winthrop Taylor
He was a loving husband and father to his wife, Becky and their three sons, Matthew (Casey), Andrew (Kerri), and Jonathan. He was also a loving grandfather to his grandson, Oliver Winthrop and granddaughters, Nora Anne, Winnie Bloom, and Eliza Mae, as well as his mother, Natalie Lucas Taylor and stepmother, Maxine Taylor.
Ric was born and raised in Florida. He graduated from the University of Florida and Georgia Tech earning degrees in Mathematics and Engineering and ultimately a Ph. D. in Statistics and Operations Research. For nearly 20 years Ric taught on the faculties of several universities, including The University of Akron. After his academic career, Ric founded and lead a consulting company, became an expert in his field of Six Sigma, and guided corporations to improve their processes. His consulting career allowed him to serve companies in over 30 countries.
Ric loved the outdoors and enjoyed volunteering with the Metro Parks Bike Patrol, hiking with Becky, and working in his own backyard. An excellent craftsman, Ric used his engineering aptitude (and well-equipped workshop) to design and build many projects: everything from a backyard fort and swing set for his sons, to bird houses for a charity fundraiser. He was a generous friend and neighbor willing to lend a tool, his expertise, or some sweat equity for another’s project. Ric had a unique, intelligent sense of humor and a smile that brightened every room. A natural athlete, Ric participated in sports his entire life, making life-long friends through volleyball, basketball, soccer, and running. He also enjoyed coaching and cheering on his boys’ love of sports, especially soccer. He was passionate about his family, leaving a legacy in the children and grandchildren he raised and loved.