- 08/25/2010- Ray Taylor - Nancy Taylor reports- "Regrettably, Ray and I will be
unable to attend the class reunion this year. As most of you probably know, Ray was diagnosed
with Alzheimer’s Disease about 9 years ago. Although he enjoys the semi-annual dinners with the
“locals”, I think this weekend get away would be too much for him. The unfamiliar surroundings
and so many faces would make him very anxious.
Ray still loves his gardening and his Wednesdays with Hal, but for the most part, he is pretty
confused. He cannot stay alone anymore and we have devised a plan we call Raycare, a combination
of our kids taking a couple of days with him, a health aid once a week, and I work from home
two days a week. For now, it seems to work, although he doesn’t always know who we are.
Some days are better than others.
Over the years I have come to look forward to the reunions as much as Ray. It is always a fun
time with great people. I know you will have a wonderful weekend. Please take lots of pictures.
Nancy Taylor"
- 02/21/2012- Ray Taylor- Namcy reports that Ray's condition has worsened gradually and he recently caught pneumonia. On the advice of Ray's doctors in Boston his wife Nancy has placed him in a full-time Alzheimer's care facility-
Kindred Nursing and Rehabilitation - Blue Hills Alzheimer's
1044 Park Street, Stoughton, MA 02072-3762 Phone: 781.344.7300
It has now been 12 years since Ray, and Nancy, has suffered with this affliction. Harold reports that lately during his weekly trips to take Ray for a ride, that Ray had become very quiet and lethargic. Though he still recognized Harold he was unresponsive to Harold's attempts to cheer him up so that he would enjoy the ride as he did in previous months.
Nancy, we all send our blessings and best wishes to you and Ray.
- 04/09/2012- Nancy Taylor - Open letter to the OAHS Class of 1952
"Thank you for your prayers and condolences on Ray's passing. Your expressions of sorrow were a wonderful tribute to Ray, but also to the OAHS class of 1952. Your class has always remained close and maintained friendships throughout the years.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your understanding and kindness to Ray during his long struggle with Alzheimer's disease. Some of the happiest outings for him in the last few years had been the "mini" class reunions. He was not always sure who you were individually, but he knew familiar faces and felt safe and welcome in your presence. Although I am not a class member, I always felt that same welcome in the 30+ years that I have had the pleasure of knowing you.
Special thanks, of course, to Hal. Never has there been a friend more loving and loyal. To all the "locals" who have invited me to continue my association with your class, I am honored to be included in such a nurturing group. Your stories of the "old days" will help keep alive memories of the man we loved.
Lastly, thank you for the donation in Ray's memory. I have sent it along to Mass General for Alzheimer's research; a cause Ray participated in through studies and trials. I know he is smiling down on us and saying "good job". Sincerely, Nancy Taylor"