John Taylor, Jr.

John Taylor, Jr.’s journey to a purpose driven life began on January 23, 1939 in Milledgeville, Georgia. Born to Lizzie D. Jackson and John Taylor Sr., he was the second born and 2nd oldest son.

From an early age, John displayed the qualities that would define him throughout his life. His love for nature and the outdoors was cultivated during his childhood adventures with his brothers, Marshall and James, as they explored the woods of Baldwin and Hancock Counties, creating memories and stories he would fondly share for years to come.

Equally rooted in his childhood was his unwavering love for God and for music. As a young member of Shiloh Baptist Church in Milledgeville, John discovered his gift for singing, a gift that would become one of his life's greatest ministries. He joined several local groups, most notably The Tornadoes, and his unmistakable voice would eventually become well known throughout Fort Valley and Middle Georgia. Many compared his smooth vocals to those of Sam Cooke and, at times, Elvis Presley. Whether singing "God Cares," "Lily in the Valley," or even "My Girl," John had a unique ability to touch hearts and usher listeners into joy and worship through song.

John’s spirit of service and care for others emerged early and was seen in the way he nurtured his younger siblings – James, Mary, Robert, Willie, and Joyce. This same heart would later define a career in education and counseling that impacted countless lives at Fort Valley State University, where he served in various roles. He never really met a young person that he believed he couldn’t help with a little time and intention.

In 1962, John married his high school sweetheart, Delia J. Woolfork, beginning a beautiful partnership that would span more than 63 years. Together they built a home filled with faith, unconditional love, creativity, learning, laughter and unwavering support. They raised four children while also opening their hearts to countless young people who found encouragement and guidance under their roof. As a husband and father, John exemplified servant leadership, ensuring that his family always felt protected, spiritually grounded, and deeply loved. His home became a place where curiosity was encouraged, creativity flourished, and laughter was abundant.

As his family matured, so did his ministry of service. For more than five decades as a faithful member of Trinity Baptist Church, John established an unparalleled example of servant leadership. He faithfully served in the Chancel Choir, on the Board of Trustees, and on the Deacon Board, where he served as Chairman for many years. His artistic gifts also blessed the church family, from painting the life-sized mural that adorns the baptismal pool to designing and creating the annual Christmas decorations that transformed the sanctuary during the holiday season.

In 1999, John retired from Fort Valley State University, allowing him to devote more time to his beloved wife, family, and the passions he cherished. Together, he and Delia traveled throughout the United States and Canada alongside lifelong high school and college friends, creating treasured memories along the way. Nothing, however, brought him greater joy than spending time with his grandchildren—Brandyn, Daryus, Corye, Taylor, and Aris — who each held a special place in his heart.

Retirement did not diminish John's servant's heart; instead, it created new opportunities for his generosity to shine. Whether crafting handmade wooden cars for children at Christmas or teaching himself to knit in his seventies so he could make hats for women undergoing cancer treatments, John consistently used his talents to bring comfort, hope, and joy to others. His life was a living testament that true service knows no age and no limits.

On June 9, the Lord called His faithful servant home, bringing to a close a life marked by unwavering faith, humble service, and extraordinary love. Though our hearts grieve the physical separation, we rejoice in the blessing of 87 remarkable years filled with laughter, compassion, and purpose. We celebrate a man who showed us that serving humanity is one of God's greatest callings and rest in the promise that, through Christ, we shall meet again.

John leaves to cherish his memory his devoted wife of 63 years, Delia W. Taylor; his children, John Taylor III, Tonja Taylor Pitts (Carl), Victor Taylor, and Tiffany Taylor Early (Michael); his beloved niece and bonus daughters, Cherilyn S. Zellner (Lewis), Marsha Lynn Taylor, and Monique Hunt (Derrick); bonus sons Rick Jackson and Julius "Chuck" Woodson; special daughter Tunya M. Taylor; five grandchildren, Brandon Taylor, Daryus Taylor, Corye Taylor, Taylor Early, and Aris Early; one great-grandchild, Amirya Taylor; his siblings, Mary Johnson, Robert Taylor, Willie Taylor (Yvonne), and Joyce Abrams (Otis); along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure the legacy of love, faith, and service he leaves behind.