Johnny J. “Big John” Taylor, 65, of Stoney Creek, passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2014, at Johnson City Medical Center following a lengthy illness.
He was born in Carter County and was a son of the late John and Allie Mae Blevins Taylor.
“Big John” was a retired employee of the Carter County School System, after many years of service. He was a true Unaka Ranger, avidly supporting Ranger athletics and Unaka High School, after being a standout basketball player in the late 1960s. “Big John” loved sports and getting to watch the pride and joy of his life, his son, Jamie, and grandson, Brady, get to play for the Rangers.
Survivors include his wife of 45 years, Karen Richardson Taylor, of the home; one son, Jamie Taylor, Elizabethton; two grandchildren, Brady Taylor and Katie Bishop and their mother, Kristie Bishop; one brother and sister-in-law, Willis and Regina Taylor, Elizabethton; one sister, Gail Taylor, Knoxville; one brother-in-law, Kenven Richardson and wife, Becky; several nieces, nephews and cousins; and very special friends, Justin Richardson, Ronnie Carrier, Adam and Teresa Taylor, Mickey and Becky Taylor, Aaron and Lacey Dugger.
It is said that true wealth is measured by the number of friends you have, if so, “Big John” was a very rich man. He leaves behind his many friends in the Stoney Creek Community, all past and present coaches and athletic staff of Unaka High School, as well as the players; Jerry Nave, Wayne Sams, Missy Ward and the employees of the Carter County Bus Garage and the school bus drivers.
It was “Big John’s” wish to be cremated. Private services will be held at a later date. Friends may call at the residence at anytime. In lieu of flowers, make donations to the Unaka High School Athletic Department, 119 Robinson Lane, Elizabethton, TN 37643. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.tetrickfuneralhome.com and signing the guest book.
Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is serving the Taylor family. Office: (423) 542-2232. Obituary Line: (423) 543-4917.