From left, are Chelsea Newton, Dr. John R. Taylor III, Billie Newton and John Cleve Newton. (Photo contributed) Dr. John R. Taylor III graduated May 22 with a MD degree from the University of Florida College of Medicine. J.R. served four years as the Academic Chair (Class President) of the Class of 2010.

He received the Edward R. Woodward Surgical Award by the Department of Surgery as the top student in surgery in his class. He also received the F. Eugene Tubbs, M.D., J.D. Memorial Award given jointly each year to a UF senior medical student and a Florida State University senior law student who have demonstrated excellence in their field.

J.R. did his undergraduate studies at the Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland where he was a member of the US Army ROTC program and a four year stellar performer in baseball. Upon graduating he was also commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the US Army. He served four years on active duty and is a combat veteran of the Iraq war where he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge.

Following the graduation ceremony, Dr Taylor’s parents, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) John R. and Marlie Taylor honored their son with a catered barbeque dinner reception for 100 guests at their Gainesville, Florida home. Dr. Taylor’s uncle and aunt, John Cleve and Billie Newton, and cousin, Chelsea, of Millen provided invaluable assistance throughout the evening’s festivities.

Dr. Taylor is the grandson of life long Millen residents, the late Wilmer and Miriam Taylor. His maternal grandparents are Margaret Voorhees of Orlando, Florida and the late Charles L. Voorhees.

Dr. Taylor will begin a five year residency in general surgery July 1 followed by two years of trauma surgery at the University of Kentucky Medical Center. He, wife Kristin and 18 month old son John IV will reside in Lexington, Kentucky.