Ruie Willis “Boots”  Taylor Jr. crossed over to the other side on October 9, 2015, after battling cancer for many months.

Boots was born in Arcadelphia, Arkansas on December 19, 1944 to Louise and Ruie Taylor. He grew up with his sister Rachel, his parents and grandparents in rural Arkansas. He joined the Army in the late 1950s and was honorably discharged in 1963. He traveled west after leaving the Army. He lived a nomadic life, making homes in Northern California, Southern Oregon, Montana, New Mexico and Hawaii. He spent many years in Humboldt County; southern Humboldt, Bridgeville and Trinidad.

Boots was truly a Renaissance man. He was a farmer, a hunter of beautiful crystals, and most especially a poet. He shared his poetry with his many friends and with strangers for decades. He gave poetry readings in locations such as New York, San Francisco, Garberville, and Hawaii. He was an original volunteer of Reggae on the River. He was knowledgeable about a multitude of subjects, and had a quirky sense of humor. He played a mean game of cribbage. He lived a full life, was passionate about equality, peace, the environment, his family and friends.

Boots was preceded in death by his parents Louise and Ruie, his sister Rachel, his nephew Gilman and his longtime companion Melody. He is survived by his nieces Linda (Jimmy), Micky (Mark), and nephew Tim (Trina), many great nieces and nephews, and some great-greats. Also by a host of friends.

During the last two months two old friends, Boots and Ron enjoyed sitting on the porch smoking cigarettes, drinking coffee, and watching the Giants play baseball. The family wishes to thank the McQueens for providing Boots a home and safe haven.

A memorial Service for Boots will be held at the Rio Dell Baptist Church, 100 Butcher St (corner of Bellview and Wildwood) Rio Dell on Saturday Nov., 7 at 1 p.m. Potluck gathering to follow at the church. Call Linda at (707) 601-1983 for details.

Signs of spring

Your thousand smiles
of voice singing through
space – crossing the waves
of air over water, pulling
my lips into a bouquet
of smiles -

What place is there
that your eyes cannot dream thru?
My bones sing the warm
dream, knowing that I
live in your memories-
knowing I will live
to see you again-

#2 

They are stealing the water
right from the land
world domination
is what they’ve got planned
I’m wondering where
I can make a stand
To dam up the water
From these corporate hands-

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The obituary above was submitted by Boots Taylor’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.