Dennis Lloyd Taylor, veteran, retired pilot
Dennis Lloyd Taylor passed away peacefully in his sleep at home Monday, Dec. 30, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born May 11, 1946, in Brooklyn, N.Y., he was the beloved son of Albert L. Taylor and Laura Maria (DiCapua) Taylor.
Dennis received his education at LaGuardia Academy of Aeronautics in Queens, N.Y., and his primary and secondary schooling in Brooklyn, where he developed an early passion for aviation. He often spent hours at the nearby naval air station, Floyd Bennett Field, observing naval flight activities. This passion led him to join the U.S. Navy in 1966, where he served as an aircraft commander. Dennis and his three-man crew flew the Navy's first purpose-built, carrier-based anti-submarine warfare aircraft (S-2F) from the USS Wasp (CVS-18), conducting operations across the Atlantic, Caribbean, and Mediterranean to track and pursue Russian submarines.
After his service, Dennis began a distinguished career as a co-pilot with the newly formed Xerox Flight Department based at Westchester County Airport in White Plains, N.Y. Throughout his 40-year career, he advanced to chief pilot and flew over 30 different types of aircraft before retiring in 2012.
Dennis was deeply committed to his community, contributing to the creation of the BMX track in Bethel, Conn., and serving as an ambulance director for Stony Hill Volunteer Fire Department in Bethel. He was also a faithful member of the Elks Lodge in Connecticut and Delaware. His love for photography, astronomy, and cycling enriched his life and those around him.
Dennis will always be remembered for his lifelong collection of positive quotes, generosity in helping others in need, and dedication to celebrating all aspects of life.
Dennis is predeceased by his parents, Albert L. Taylor and Laura Maria (DiCapua) Taylor; and his first wife, Cathy Taylor.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Nila (McBreairty) Taylor; his son, Robert Taylor and fiancée Lisa; Shane and Ashley McKenney and Austin and Heather McKenney; several grandchildren; his sister, Alberta and her spouse Fred Shagel, along with their family; and many extended family members and friends.
Dennis’s legacy of kindness, dedication, and zest for life will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
A private celebration of Dennis’s life will be held.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in Dennis’ honor be made to Delaware Hospice, Milford.
