1942-2026
Douglas Wayne “HossFly” Taylor, age 83, of Pine Bluff, passed away on April 22, 2026.
Wayne was born in Pine Bluff on June 27, 1942, to S. W. and Ruthie Elva Blackerby Taylor of Grapevine, Arkansas. He was a devoted husband to Gletta, a wonderful dad to Lisa, and the greatest Paw to his grandsons, Jacob and Lukas. He took great pride in being with his family and made the most of the time spent with them.
Wayne is survived by his daughter, Lisa Gail Trussell and her husband, Wesley of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma; his grandsons, Jacob Mayberry and his wife Hillary of Bryant, Arkansas, and Lukas Mayberry of Hensley, Arkansas; and his growing great-granddaughters, Marley and Caroline. He is also survived by his sisters, Carolyn Strode and husband Joe, and Sue Heird; brother-in-law Truman Moltz; sister-in-law Lottie Taylor; his trusted friend, Pam Blanton; along with many family members and a host of close friends who always felt welcome with his conversation and storytelling.
He was preceded in death on March 3, 2026 by his wife of 65 years, Gletta Gean Lawrence Taylor; an infant son, James Douglas Taylor; a brother, Perry Taylor; and a sister, Beth Taylor Moltz.
As a man of strong faith, Wayne had been a member of several local churches where he was a deacon and faithfully served in many church roles.
Wayne loved camping and was happiest when sharing that joy with his family. He took pride in maintaining his family’s campground and hosted many fish fries. Everyone cherished the campfire stories and memorable meals which were always at the heart of the remarkable experiences he created.
Wayne was known for his hard work in everything he did. He spent decades working as a carman for the Cotton Belt Railroad, where he built lifelong friendships and earned the respect of those who worked beside him.
Wayne was a man of many talents who could build just about anything. From handmade contraptions to useful tools, he had a knack for creating what was needed. His detailed welding skills were just a part of his talents.
His passion was horses, and he was happiest in the saddle, riding a trail, or spending the day at a horse show or rodeo. He was always sure to come home with another story to tell. He spent many years working as a farrier for horses and customers across the local community putting in long days and hard work to help provide for horse show expenses and family needs.
Wayne will be remembered for his plentiful “just one more story” storytelling, conversation, friendly nature, and ability to make everyone smile. Like any good cowboy who knew where he came from, he spent years keeping track of the family history, preserving the accounts and heritage of the ones who came before him.
Services will be held on April 25, 2026, in the Chapel of Ralph Robinson & Son, 807 Cherry Street, Pine Bluff, Arkansas 71601. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be in Grapevine Cemetery.
Pallbearers will be nephews: Karlos Heird, Perry Lynn Taylor, Jamie Taylor, Jody Taylor, Scott Taylor; and his friend and former pastor, Gerald Wingard. Jacob Mayberry and Lukas Mayberry will serve as honorary pallbearers.
