A lover of people and rugby, Roy Taylor was a gentleman.

Thank goodness Risca RFC was where he came to support rugby. Risca RFC always had a proud tradition, well 1875, we were almost a founder member, but when Roy appeared on the scene in the 80’s, 1980’s, Risca were going through a stormy time off the field. Roy was not deterred, as Treasurer of the Club he would go about Risca, raffle book in hand, charming the defenceless public into buying a ticket for a “Chicken Dinner.” The individual if not a winner had his/her money’s worth as every ticket came with a story or good conversation. Roy was unique; never daunted he carried on raising funds for the club he loved until he put Risca R.F.C. back into a sound financial state.

A product of West End Abercarn, Roy served in the Army in India and married Dorothy, affectionately known as Dood. It was Dood that understood Roy’s passions, Dood was his rock and she and son Byron with wife Caroline and their two children supported Roy in everything he did. Not only did he put Risca in a good financial situation but he maintained it by mentoring Mike Jones who under Roy’s tutoring has kept Risca buoyant. As an Ansells representative his rugby embraced Newbridge and Cyril Jones. Much can be said about the trio but that’s for another time. He was a strong supporter of St. David’s Foundation. Roy was a patient, good natured, loyal friend and committeeman, a rich selfless character who will be greatly missed.                       

God Bless you Roy.