New scholarship honors former publisher of Dispatch/Argus and his beloved wife

Family welcomes contributions to grow the fund for students

Jerry and Martha Taylor

To say Jerry and Martha Taylor were fiercely independent would be an understatement. They were amazing as individuals and far greater as a team. They were dedicated to their faith and passionately committed to their family and their community.

Jerry was the former editor and publisher of The Dispatch/Rock Island Argus, and Martha was a gifted dancer and owner of the Junior Performing Arts Troupe (JPAT).

Through the Quad Cities Community Foundation, the Taylor family has established a memorial scholarship fund to honor the legacy of their father, mother, sister, grandpa, grandma, and friend. The scholarship will be awarded to students from Rock Island County majoring in journalism, theatre arts, or special education or attending an accredited trade school.

Contributions to the scholarship fund can be made here. Learn more about the Community Foundation’s 70+ scholarships at www.qccommunityfoundation.org/scholarships.

“Our parents always advocated for young people,” said Kathy Taylor-Ruggeberg. “Their six children and over 20 grandchildren and great-grandchildren meant everything to them. They believed in the young people in our community, too; they wanted everyone to have a chance to reach their goals. This scholarship honors those values.”

Despite the challenges of mothering six, Martha, ever the gifted dancer and gracious teacher, taught ballet at Black Hawk College and in her home. She founded JPAT in 1984 and continued until she retired in 2009. Jerry was drafted into Vietnam, serving from 1969 to 1971 before an amazing five-decade career in journalism. Throughout his career, he was the managing editor, general manager, and editor and publisher of The Dispatch/The Rock Island Argus/QCOnline.com.

The Taylors moved to the Quad Cities in 1975 and remained dedicated to that community until their passing. Together, they helped build many organizations, including the Quad City Music Guild (QCMG). "They were passionate about the Quad Cities,” said Phil Taylor. "For those who shared moments with Mom and Dad, and for those who never had the opportunity, this scholarship ensures that their values continue to thrive. My parents modeled the responsibility and joy of providing opportunities and looking out for those less fortunate. As a family, we're determined to make sure that spirit continues."

Tragically, the family faced another unexpected loss when Danny Taylor, Jerry and Martha’s beloved grandson, son of David and Melodi Taylor, was taken from them on April 14, 2023. “Mom and Dad lived for their grandkids,” said Phil Taylor. “Danny's memory will forever be intertwined with the cherished legacies of his grandparents, including this scholarship.”

The scholarship is designed to reflect Jerry and Martha’s passions and convictions. “The Jerry and Martha Taylor Memorial Scholarship is a perfect example of how Community Foundation scholarships are meant to function,” said Joscelyn Rowe, gift advisor and director of engagement at the Community Foundation. “This award will honor the Taylor’s powerful legacy and pass their dedication to our community on for generations.”