John Dilmus Taylor Jr.

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John Dilmus Taylor Jr., June 12, 1931-Sept. 15, 2017, was preceded in death by his parents, John D. Taylor Sr. and Winifred Allen Taylor; and his sister, Myrna Ely.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Louise Mayberry Taylor; one son, John D. Taylor III; and one daughter, Elizabeth Taylor Grantham; seven grandchildren (James Taylor, Jacob Taylor, Micah Taylor, Rachel Sims, Jack Sims, Gracie Sims, Ben Sims); and one great-granddaughter, Rachel Taylor.

He touched the lives of countless people over the years, taking time to visit others, serving his church, making people laugh and being a source of love and encouragement for students, family and friends.

He was an Alabama State Health Inspector for 18 years, taught sixth grade at Elberta School for 11 years and was a dedicated member of the Baldwin County EMC Board of Directors for 29 years.

Everywhere he went and each place that he worked, he made a positive impact on others and created lifelong friendships.

Jack was a lifelong member of St. Peter's Episcopal Church in Bon Secour. He was a devoted husband, father, teacher and friend.

He took the time to visit others and to truly have a servant's heart, being the hands and feet of Jesus and ministering to those who needed him.

He delivered Meals on Wheels for 26 years, often taking the time to pray with each person on his route as he delivered their meals.

Serving his country in the Navy during the Korean War, he was a true patriot and a role model for his children and grandchildren and students. He loved God, his family, his students and his country.

"Sow with a view to righteousness, Reap in accordance with kindness." Hosea 10:12. We are told to plant seeds, having faith that they will grow, even though we may not be around to view the crop. We can all be thankful that John D. Taylor Jr. planted seeds his whole life, in his family, friends and students, to honor God and to bring Him the glory.

He probably never knew how many lives he impacted and how many people loved him and respected him, but God used him in a mighty way, and we can all be sure that he heard the words that we all long to hear one day, "Well done, good and faithful servant."