James M. Taylor, 83, of Zanesfield, died Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, at the Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital in Columbus.
A graduate of Northwestern High School in Raymond, he was a veteran of the U.S. Army and served in Germany. He preached the gospel of Jesus Christ for many years, starting at Magnetic Springs Church of Christ, served as an elder at Marysville Church of Christ and ministered at Kenton Church of Christ for seven years, Urbana Church of Christ for seven years and Bellefontaine Church of Christ congregation for many years.
Never one to sit still, he enjoyed being outside, whether it was fishing when he could get away, culturing his fruit trees or his true passion, gardening. Those who knew him best knew his deep appreciation for gardening.
He was born May 15, 1935, in Broadway, to the late John M. and Lillian (Boerger) Taylor. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brother, Richard Taylor.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 62 years, Joy (Miller) Taylor, whom he married Nov. 25, 1956, at Lunda Church of Christ in Raymond and who survives in Zanesfield; children, Cynthia (Jeffrey) Sheldon of Marysville, Kelly (Michelle) Taylor of West Liberty and Mark (Dianne) Taylor of Grove City; grandchildren, Adam, Ashley, Zachary and Isaac Taylor, Luke (Meagan) Taylor, Stephen (Kelsey) Taylor, Wyatt and Micah Vaughn and Kyle, Brandon and Cole Upton; sister, Judy (Gene) Britton of Franklin; brothers, Thomas (Linda) Taylor and Steve (Kandie) Taylor, both of Alabama; sister-in-law, Bonnie Taylor of Marion; numerous nieces and nephews; and many other extended church family and friends.
Friends may call from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday and from 11 a.m. until the time of the service at 1 p.m. Thursday at Wilson Funeral Home, Mannasmith Chapel. Fred Bowman will officiate the service. Burial will follow at Millcreek Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, it is requested memorial contributions in his memory be made to Bellefontaine Church of Christ or the Richard M. Ross Heart Hospital in care of the funeral home.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.wilsonfuneralhomesinc.com.