Radford Athletics is saddened to learn of the passing of Mr. Charles David "Chuck" Taylor on Wednesday, Sept. 21. The first-ever men's basketball head coach and athletics director in school history, he made an everlasting mark on the history of the Highlanders.
 
Taylor served as athletics director from 1974-1996, leading Radford on a remarkable journey from a six-sport unaffiliated small college program to Division I. Today, the Highlanders sponsor 16 varsity sports and have proudly played at the Division I level since 1984.
 
During his tenure, Radford Athletics was nationally recognized as a leader in opportunities for women and minorities, as well as in graduation rates for student-athletes. In competition, seven different programs achieved national rankings in his time guiding the Highlanders.
 
Also serving as men's basketball coach from 1974-78, Taylor compiled a 56-43 record, never suffering a losing season and setting the stage for the program's future success.
 
The Radford Athletics Hall of Fame inducted Taylor in its third-ever class, enshrining him alongside Nan Millner (women's basketball), Steve Robinson (men's basketball) and Dante Washington (men's soccer) in 1997. He was also inducted into the Big South Conference Hall of Fame in 2006.

Chuck is survived by his father, Charles; his wife, Cheryl, and their children, Chip and Charlee; and his five grandchildren: Walker, Charlie, and Enuka, Chip's sons; Kelly Grey, Chip's daughter; and Palmer, Charlee's son.

During his last months, Chuck's life was improved because of the generosity of blood and platelet donors. If you are able, please consider making a donation to help someone like Chuck.