Terry Taylor Obituary, Cause of Death – Beloved Aviation and TWA Professional Dies at 85
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Terry Kent Taylor, 85, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, leaving behind a loving family, cherished friends and a remarkable legacy shaped by aviation, service, travel and lifelong friendships.
Born on October 19, 1940, on a farm near Eureka, Kansas, Terry developed his lifelong passion for aviation at just four years old. His fascination began after an aircraft ran out of fuel and landed in his family’s farm pasture near their home. That early encounter with aviation would become the foundation of a career and personal passion that remained with him throughout his life.
Terry graduated from Humboldt High School in Humboldt, Kansas, in 1958. He subsequently enlisted in the U.S. Navy’s Aviation branch, serving in aircraft-carrier assignments and at coastal air stations in several countries.
Following his Navy service, Terry began working for Boeing at three separate locations. During his five years with the company, he worked on modifications to the B-52 bomber and on the assembly of Apollo 1, part of the historic American space program that ultimately helped lead to the first human landing on the moon.
Terry later began what became a remarkable 33-year career with Trans World Airlines. He eventually retired from TWA as Director of Aircraft Engineering, bringing decades of aviation experience to the position.
His education also included studies at Metropolitan Junior College and the University of Missouri–Kansas City, where he majored in Business Management. One of his lifelong goals was to become a private pilot, an accomplishment he proudly achieved after earning his private pilot license.
Beyond his professional achievements, Terry was remembered for his personality, friendships and love of life. He never met a stranger and built lasting friendships both at home and during the many years he and his wife, Karen, spent traveling together.
Their travels took them throughout Europe, Mexico and Canada, as well as to Colorado and Florida, two destinations that became particular favorites.
Terry was preceded in death by his parents, Elmer and Wanda (Barnes) Taylor; his older brother, Richard Taylor; and his younger sister, Karen Taylor Thomas.
He is survived by his cherished soulmate and wife of 39 years, Karen DeWitt Taylor; his daughter, Tracey Taylor Rooney (Bobby); his sons, Shawn Taylor (Julie) and Todd Taylor (Amy); and his four grandchildren, Maggie, Whitney, Garrett and Ty.
Terry and Karen were tremendously proud of their grandchildren, who will carry his memory with them. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews across the country. Terry was previously married to Marie Kimminau Taylor of Gladstone, Missouri.
For his family, Terry’s passing represents the loss of a husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend whose presence brought joy and companionship throughout their lives. His passion for aviation, dedication to his career, love of travel and ability to form friendships wherever he went helped define the life he lived.
Terry Kent Taylor Funeral and Memorial Services
Graveside services for Terry will be held at 12:30 p.m. on Friday, October 9, 2026, at Leavenworth National Cemetery, 150 Muncie Road, Leavenworth, Kansas.
A reception in his honor will follow on Saturday, October 10, 2026, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at American Legion Post 58, 2607 State Route 92, Smithville, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in Terry’s name to the Saint Luke’s Hospital Foundation, 901 East 104th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64131. The family expressed deep appreciation and gratitude for the care Terry received throughout the years.
Terry Kent Taylor lived a full and meaningful life, from his childhood fascination with airplanes to his military service, decades in the aviation industry, career with TWA, travels with his beloved wife and the many relationships he formed along the way.
He will be deeply missed by Karen, his children, grandchildren, extended family and the many friends whose lives he touched.
May Terry Kent Taylor’s memory continue to soar through the lives of all who knew and loved him.