Former Pennsauken mayor and longtime Board of Education employee Rick Taylor has passed away. He was 73.
A Township statement on Mr. Taylor’s passing stated, “We were extremely saddened to hear that Rick Taylor, longtime Pennsauken resident, public servant, and educator, passed away last night after a prolonged illness. For years, countless students and residents, colleagues and friends, have been lifted up by Rick’s amazing spirit; found joy through his positive attitude and humor; and been inspired by his courage and abiding faith. Our most heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with Rick’s wife, Bernice, their children and grandchildren, and his many family and friends.”
Mr. Taylor worked for the Pennsauken School for 42 years, serving in a variety of capacities, including teacher, principal, and administrator. He also served as an assistant football coach and head golf coach at Pennsauken High School.
“Discussing Mr. Taylor with his former students, he was best known for his oversized personality and his fairness. He would always listen to your side of the story, even if he was upset with your actions,” said Dr. Ronnie Tarchichi, superintendent, Pennsauken School District, in a letter to the school community. “He referred to his students as ‘doctor,’ which might have been his amazing way of letting them know that they could accomplish anything.”
As a member of Township Committee, Mr. Taylor served for 25 years, first elected in 1994 and concluding his final term of office in December of last year. He had served as mayor for nine years in that span.
“Camden County lost a great public servant and community leader with the passing of Rick Taylor, as a tireless advocate for children, youth, and families,” said Freeholder Director Louis Cappelli, Jr., on behalf the entire Freeholder Board. “He had a smile that could light up a room and a keen intellect that was used to improve and enhance the Township over the last four decades. It is without question, Pennsauken and Camden County were better places because of Rick’s contributions and his deep commitment to his community. Rick taught us all what it truly meant to serve our fellow citizens and give something back to our community.”
“My heart is heavy today over the passing of my high school principal and dear friend Rick Taylor. Rick was more than an accomplished educator, football coach, administrator and mayor – he was a tireless advocate for our children, families and those less fortunate,” added Congressman Donald Norcross in a statement on social media. “His passing is a great loss to Pennsauken and our entire community, as well as a deeply personal loss for those who were privileged to call him a friend and mentor.”
The viewing for Mr. Taylor will be on Thursday, Jan. 16, 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and Friday, Jan. 17, 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., at Falco/Caruso & Leonard Pennsauken Funeral Home, 6600 N. Browning Rd., Pennsauken, N.J. Mass of Christian Burial will be on Friday, Jan. 17, 10:30 a.m., St. Stephen Roman Catholic Church, 6300 Browning Rd., Pennsauken, N.J.
This article will be updated as more information is made available.
