Ronnie Taylor, age 73

Ronnie Taylor, age 73, passed away on Thursday, May 23, 2019.

Ronnie was the son of the late Elmer and Lois Taylor. He was raised in the Ruth community, attended Ruth Elementary School, and was a graduate of R-S Central class of 1964. Ronnie enjoyed an exciting childhood running across the field to his grandparents' home, playing in the woods and creek, and being a daredevil on his bicycle. His fondest memories were of hunting and fishing with his Grandpa Jake.

Ronnie served three years in the Air Force during the Vietnam War, including service during the Tet Offensive. Sergeant Taylor was stationed at Beale AFB, California. While at Beale, Ronnie played short stop on the baseball team. Ronnie had fond memories of the time that the Air Force team traveled to Folsom Prison to play the inmates.

Ronnie is survived by his loving wife of 42 years, Kim Harris Taylor. Also surviving are his oldest son and best friend Jake, and Jake's devoted girlfriend, Emily Nichols. Ronnie enjoyed special times hunting and fishing with Jake from the time he was a toddler until their last fishing trip last summer. Ronnie's younger son, John, was his pride and joy. Ronnie was John's greatest supporter and encourager on the football field. He was proud of John's military service and college success.

Ronnie and Kim spent many happy years camping in Cherokee. Ronnie knew all the best fishing holes on the Raven Fork and Oconaluftee Rivers where he caught a rare and prized golden trout. Ronnie and Kim both had a love for the water and spent many happy days boating with family and friends on Lake James. Summers were also devoted to growing a home vegetable garden, where Ronnie was the family supervisor.

Also surviving is a brother Eddie Taylor and wife Jill, nephews Charlie and Clancy Taylor, and their families. He is also survived by a special Aunt, Dot Scott. Also surviving is a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Roger and Nadine Harris, their children and grandchildren.

Ronnie was preceded in death by his grandparents Charlie and Mallie Taylor, Jake and Odessa Arrowood, and one grandson.

Ronnie was a lifelong member of Southern Baptist Church in Rutherfordton. Ronnie grew up under the strong Christian influence of his parents, Sunday School teachers, and RA leaders. The last church service Ronnie was able to attend was Homecoming last fall.

Funeral service to celebrate and honor the life of Ronnie Taylor was held at Southern Baptist Church with burial in the church cemetery with military rites. Pallbearers: Kenneth Arrowood, cousin; J. R. Grogan, cousin; Ronnie Hendrix, friend; Jake Moore, family friend; Charlie Taylor, nephew; and Clancey Taylor, nephew. Ronnie's favorite hymn, "Amazing Grace", was performed by longtime friend, Robert King. The Church choir will present a medley of Ronnie's favorite old-time hymns.

Donations may be made to the youth fund of Southern Baptist Church, 140 Church Street, Rutherfordton, NC 28139.

Crowe's Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.