Donald (Joe) Traylor, 94, of Montgomery

Donald (Joe) Traylor, 94, of Montgomery, Indiana, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2026. 

He was born on January 7, 1932, in Daviess County, Indiana, to Bennie and Pauline (Tewell) Traylor. A lifelong resident of Montgomery, Joe lived a life defined by faith, hard work, humility, and an unwavering devotion to his family and community. 

On October 11, 1952, Joe married the love of his life, Gladys E. (Wathen) Traylor, beginning a partnership that spanned nearly seven decades. Their marriage was grounded in shared values, deep faith, and a commitment to raising their family with purpose and love. 

In 1952, he was drafted into the United States Army and completed his basic training at Fort Bliss, Texas. After his service, Joe returned home and, with determination and vision, began building what would become a lifelong enterprise. 

In 1956, Joe and Gladys took a leap of faith - beginning a milk route before later purchasing property and establishing what would become Traylor Fertilizer Service (TFS), Inc. Through grit, innovation, and steady growth, Joe expanded the business over more than five decades into a cornerstone of the local agricultural community. 

Joe’s business success focused on his employees and the community. He believed in treating others fairly, building trust, and supporting the community that supported him. Whether hosting annual customer appreciation dinners for hundreds of local farmers or organizing trips to St. Louis Cardinals games, Joe found meaningful ways to connect with others and show his gratitude. 

Above all else, Joe was a family man. He took immense pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, finding his greatest joy in time spent together whether at home, at Boggs Lake, traveling, or gathering for holidays and celebrations. He was happiest when surrounded by family, always looking forward to the next visit and the chance to create lasting memories. He was an avid fan and supporter of all sports at Barr-Reeve High School; IU basketball and, more recently, IU football; and St. Louis Cardinals. 

Joe was also known for his practical wisdom and steady guidance. His advice was simple but enduring: put your family first, treat others fairly, work hard, and keep the Lord at the center of your life. Those values shaped not only his life but the generations that follow him. 

A devoted member of St. Peter Catholic Church, along with Gladys, Joe lived his faith through action, serving quietly, giving generously, and leading by example. He leaves behind a legacy not only of business success, but of integrity, faith, and a life well lived. 

Joe is survived by his children: Greg (Angie) Traylor and Brian (Sharon) Traylor, both of Montgomery; Lisa (Jim) Riggins of Bloomington; and Michael (Derek Holmgren) Traylor of Portland, Oregon. He is also survived by 11 grandchildren: Mandy Rodewald and Dr. Adam Traylor (Greg and Angie); Justin Harris and Dylan, Elizabeth, Shane, and Emily (Blake Hoppes) Butler (Mark); Amy Traylor and Breanna Gerkin (Brian and Sharon); and Ben and Clay Riggins (Lisa and Jim). He is further survived by 13 great-grandchildren: Bella Rodewald (Mandy and Craig); Paxton, Cannon, and Ada Traylor (Adam and Amber); Cece and Lily Harris (Justin and Meredith); Amelie Butler (Dylan and Ana Unda); Hunter and Hudson Butler (Shane and Hayley); Grace, Cooper, and Graham Riggins (Ben and Hanna); and Carver Riggins (Clay and Aubrey). 
 
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gladys (3/2021); his son, Mark (12/2022); his granddaughter, Mallory Riggins (8/2000); his parents; and other family members who welcomed him into eternal rest. 

Visitation will be held at St. Peter Catholic Church on Friday, May 1, from 3-8 pm and on Saturday, May 2, from 9-10:45 am. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 am on Saturday, May 2 and live streamed from https://www.facebook.com/stpetermont/. Celebrant will be Father Stephen McGinnis; co-celebrants will be Father Keith Hart, Father James Koressel, the Very Rev. J. Kenneth Walker, and Father Lowell Will. Burial will follow at St. Peter Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Peter Catholic Church or Montgomery St. Vincent de Paul Foundation. 

Online condolences may be made at www.blakefuneralhomes.com. 

Blake and Wagler Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Donald “Joe” Traylor.