Earl P. Taylor

Earl Powe Taylor, 89, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, October 6, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. Born in the rural foothills of Traveler's Rest, South Carolina, to Attorney J.E. Taylor and Grace Darnell Taylor, Earl's life was a story of determination, loyalty, and quiet courage.

He graduated from Slater-Marietta High School and entered the U.S. Army at a young age, where he proudly served as a member of the Distinguished Honor Guard of the United States Army. Few would have imagined that a young man whose first job was at a J.C. Penney department store would one day rise to become a decorated soldier and respected federal officer. With only a high-school education, Earl accomplished more in his lifetime than many with advanced degrees — proving that discipline, integrity, and hard work are the truest measures of success.

Following his military service, Earl joined the South Carolina Highway Patrol, serving with honor for more than five years before advancing to the United States Treasury Department / Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer and Special Agent. His expertise and professionalism earned him distinction across federal agencies, including the ATF, FBI, CIA, and the United States Secret Service, where he served in protective assignments guarding U.S. Presidents and foreign dignitaries. Earl retired from federal service in 1987 after more than two decades of distinguished duty.

Following his retirement, Earl carried his trademark professionalism and precision into the private sector, where he helped build Norred & Associates, Inc. into one of Atlanta's most respected security and investigative firms. Drawing on his years as a Special Agent with the United States Government, Earl's leadership and training methods became instrumental in putting the company "on the map" across the Southeast.

In 2003, Earl and his wife, Merilus Clary Taylor, retired to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, where they celebrated 67 years of marriage — a lasting testament to love, loyalty, and commitment.

A man of honor, precision, and quiet strength, Earl was respected for his sense of duty, sharp wit, and unwavering integrity. One of his favorite songs, "Will You Be There" by Michael Jackson, touched him deeply — a reflection of his belief in loyalty, courage, and standing firm through life's challenges.

Earl was a great father and grandfather — a great teacher of life to his children and grandchildren, and a loyal, trusted friend to many. His lessons, humor, and steady presence will continue to live on in the hearts of those he loved and guided.

Earl is survived by his wife, Merilus Clary Taylor; son Earl Powe Taylor II (Gayle) of Jensen Beach, FL; daughters Johnalisa Leming (Greg) of Mt. Pleasant, SC, and Byron Kelli Margaret Taylor Earle (Mike) of Myrtle Beach, SC. He is also survived by his two sisters, Ruth Hollingsworth (Billy) and Atha Hancox, and by grandchildren Caitlyn Rameriz, Taylor Earle, Madeleine Peters, Trey Taylor, Nicole Rosser, Tanner Leming, Anthony Sanderson, Chase Leming, and Noah Earle, along with eleven great-grandchildren and many extended family members and friends.

He was preceded in death by six brothers: John Martin, Shields, Bud, Joe, Aaron, and Charles Taylor.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 1, 2025, from 2 pm - 4 pm at Lewis Crematory Chapel in Myrtle Beach, followed by a celebration of life honoring Earl's wish that friends and family gather informally to share stories, laughter, and remembrance.

Mr. Taylor will be honored with military honors.

Mr. Taylor's cremation arrangements are entrusted to Kelvin F. Lewis and the staff of Lewis Crematory & Funeral Home of Myrtle Beach, SC.

Gray Funeral Home is sharing Mr. Taylor's obituary as a courtesy to his family.