Dr. Robert Taylor, Cleveland passed away May 19th, 2026. He was born to Dr. Claude and Ruth Taylor on January 4th, 1936, in Cleveland, both parents precede him in death as well as his beloved wife Lois Randall Taylor.

Dr. Taylor is survived by daughter Claudia Parker (Danny) and son Randy Taylor (Amanda). Left to cherish his memories are grandchildren Taylor Parker, Caroline Taylor Sexton (Luke), Austin Parker (Elizabeth), Saige Perez (Greg) and Rylan Parker. Niece Eliza Koella and nephew Jackson Randall are left to cherish his memory as well.

Dr. Robert Fleming Taylor, was a respected veterinarian, businessman, civic leader, and servant to the Cleveland community, passed away leaving behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and service that helped shape the Cleveland community for generations. A native Tennessean with a lifelong dedication to both people and animals, Dr. Taylor graduated from Tennessee Military Institute in 1954. He completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, where he was a proud member of the ATO fraternity. He later graduated from Auburn University with a Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine, beginning a distinguished career that would make a lasting impact on the region. Following his education, Dr. Taylor honorably served his country in the United States Army at Fort Detrick. His sense of discipline, integrity, and commitment to service remained evident throughout every chapter of his life.

In 1968, Dr. Taylor founded Taylor Animal Hospital in Cleveland, Tennessee, establishing what would become one of the area’s most respected and enduring veterinary practices. At a time when veterinary services for large animals were limited across the region, Dr. Taylor provided care for livestock and farm animals while also building a trusted small-animal practice for local families. Through tireless work, professional excellence, and genuine compassion, he helped meet the growing needs of an expanding Tennessee community and became recognized as one of the pioneering business leaders contributing to the region’s development and progress. Today, Taylor Animal Hospital continues to serve the community on Keith Street in Cleveland, a lasting testament to Dr. Taylor’s vision, dedication, and enduring influence. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Taylor was deeply committed to civic leadership and public service. He was an active member of Broad Street United Methodist Church, serving in various capacities.

He faithfully served on the Industrial Bond Board for the City of Cleveland and was actively involved with the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce. He also served on the Tennessee Health Board for malpractice review, lending his wisdom, fairness, and professional expertise to matters of statewide importance. This position also included the inspection of veterinary clinics statewide. Dr. Taylor’s devotion to the betterment of Cleveland was formally recognized in 2020 by Mayor Kevin Brooks during a Cleveland City Council meeting. The proclamation recognized Dr. Taylor’s decades of civic-minded leadership, including more than 35 years of dedicated service on the City of Cleveland Health and Educational Facilities Board, where he served multiple terms as chairman beginning in 2012. This board provided oversight for local animal shelters and ensured the humane treatment of animals. In honoring him, city leaders praised his unwavering commitment to making Cleveland a better place and acknowledged the profound influence he had on the community through his many years of volunteerism, leadership, and public service.

Those who knew Dr. Taylor remember a man known for his sharp wit, playful spirit, and the kind of candid wisdom that could both challenge and encourage those around him — someone whose counsel was valued, whose work ethic was admired, and strong leadership earned the respect of colleagues, friends, and community members alike. His life’s work touched countless families, farmers, business leaders, and fellow citizens across Tennessee. Dr. Taylor leaves behind a legacy defined by honor, vision, and service. His contributions to veterinary medicine, civic leadership, and the growth of the Cleveland community will long be remembered for generations to come, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A private service will be held in honor of Dr. Taylor at a later date, per his wishes. 

Buckner & Fike Funeral Home and Cremation is in charge of all arrangements.