William R. Taber

Dr. William R. Taber 'Bill', 91, of Richfield Springs, New York, died on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, in Cooperstown, New York, as the result of a brief illness, marking the close of a life well lived.

Bill was born Sept. 3, 1932, in Utica, New York, the son of Ira and Gwen (Owen) Taber. Despite a challenging childhood, his academic prowess revealed itself early. He attended Cooperstown Academy before transferring to Richfield Springs Central School, where he graduated valedictorian. He received a scholarship and attended Columbia University, where he proudly earned his bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees in sociology.

He married Jean A. Vedder on June 11, 1956, at New York City Hall. They remained a devoted couple for 55 years. He was drafted into the U.S. Army, which sent Bill and Jean to military bases in Kentucky, Texas, and Massachusetts; he also served his Country in Korea. They shared a love of teaching, after his service Bill became a full professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice serving as chair of the sociology department. The couple moved to Richfield Springs full time with Bill obtaining his pilot's license to commute to New York City. The couple served within their community and Dr. Taber was proud to support the Richfield Springs Public Library as a board member.

Bill traveled extensively with his cousins, Paul Girsdansky and Paul's daughter, Gwendolyn throughout the United States and Canada, teaching them more about one of his greatest passions – rock formations – than they could have imagined possible. In addition to his lifelong interest in geology, he loved history, photography, and magic.

After his wife Jean's death in 2011, he met Julienne Monroe at one of the many classes he attended, and a wonderful new chapter of his life began. Together, they bought a small trailer traveling to countless places across the United States, down the East Coast and venturing out west. They spent substantial time visiting friends and exploring Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.Bill particularly loved the time they spent in Big Bend, going on many hikes and capturing beautiful photographs. Later, as they spent more time in Richfield Springs he enjoyed watching the deer in his yard.

Bill is survived by his cherished niece, Pamela (Gary) Vedder-Miller, her daughters Madalyn and Marissa; and cousins Kathleen A. Henry-Girsdansky, Gwendolyn (Zachary) Girsdansky Matson, and Gwendolyn's son, Bryer William Matson.

Bill was predeceased by his wife Jean Taber, his partner Julienne Monroe, and his cousin Paul Girsdansky.

Calling hours will be held in J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home on Saturday June 29th from 12:00-1:30pm.  There will be a private family burial. Arrangements are with J. Seaton McGrath Funeral Home in Richfield Springs. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Richfield Springs Public Library in Bill's memory.