Robert Frederick Taylor, 79, retired cellist of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, passed away peacefully at his Honeoye Falls NY home on Sunday, May 17, 2020 with his wife Melissa Matson at his side and surrounded by the love of his family and many friends. Preceded in death by his parents Opal (Smith) and Homer Spencer Taylor of Salem OH. Also survived by his son R. Mitchell Taylor of Port Charlotte, FL; daughter Jennifer (Leonard) Gibson of Lincolnton, GA; stepson Alexander Micciche of Asheville, NC; sister Rebecca (Bourbon) Zeigler of Cleveland; former wives Linda (Whinery) Taylor and Jane Ellen (Michael) Bleeg; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; niece Alicia (James) Costello of Cleveland; nephew Bourbon (Julie Albers) Zeigler Jr of Minneapolis, MN.
A graduate of Youngstown University (OH) (1962) and Eastman School of Music (1964), Bob taught at Youngstown University and played two seasons with the Dallas Symphony before joining the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (1968-2007). He performed frequently in chamber music concerts and was a member of the First Unitarian Church Choir. In his retirement he spent many years singing enthusiastically with Eastman-Rochester Chorus, Berkshire Choral Festival, Rochester Oratorio Society, and First Inversion. Beyond his music, Bob will be remembered for his kindness and his giving nature, his infatuation with cars, and for the vigorous attention he paid to his beautiful gardens.
A memorial service will take place at a future date. Donations in Bob’s memory can be sent to the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra, the Genesee Land Trust, or another local arts or nature conservation organization of your choice.