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John Bradsher "Jack" Taylor

1937 - 2025

John Bradsher "Jack" Taylor obituary, 1937-2025, Charlotte, NC

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John Taylor Obituary

John "Jack" Bradsher Taylor

October 4, 1937 - January 17, 2025

Charlotte, North Carolina - John "Jack" Bradsher Taylor, 87, of Charlotte, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at his home on January 17, 2025, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 65 years, Kathryn Godwin Taylor, originally of Ahoskie, NC. Their love story remained his favorite tale to tell throughout his life, and even as Alzheimer's progressed, their meeting remained the story he could recount longer than any other-a testament to their enduring bond. He leaves behind his two daughters, Laura Kabrich and Susan Hawes, both of Charlotte, and seven cherished grandchildren: Jack Kabrich of New York City, Luke Kabrich of Raleigh, Claire Kabrich of Baltimore, Maryland, Case Kabrich of Charlotte, and Catherine Hawes, Wilson Hawes, and Matthew Hawes, all of Charlotte. His grandchildren will forever treasure his "Popisms"-the words of wisdom he shared throughout their lives.

A proud alumnus of North Carolina State University, Jack attended on a track scholarship, where he also played football. He earned his degree in geological engineering before serving as an officer in the United States Army for two years. Following his military service, Jack pursued his law degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, launching a distinguished legal career that would span over 46 years.

As a construction attorney, Jack began his career as corporate counsel for Blythe Construction Company before establishing his successful private practices in Charlotte. Throughout his career, he was fortunate to work alongside his loyal and essential legal secretary, Betty Hill, whose dedication, and partnership were instrumental to his practice. While his professional achievements were numerous, Jack's true passion was found in the driver's seat of his beloved Austin Healeys. As a devoted member of the Austin Healey National Car Club, he proudly drove his two cherished vehicles through 48 states, missing only Hawaii and Alaska from his journey across America. His dedication to classic cars earned him multiple Austin Healey show awards, achievements he treasured as much as his legal accomplishments.

Jack never strayed far from his humble beginnings on a tobacco farm in Caswell County, North Carolina. His rural upbringing instilled in him a deep appreciation for the simple pleasures in life, hard work, and a lasting connection to the outdoors. An avid fly fisherman, he found solace and joy casting lines in the rivers of North Carolina, West Virginia, and Montana. His camping adventures along these waterways were among his most treasured memories.

Known for his animated storytelling and joke-telling abilities, Jack had a unique talent for bringing laughter and light to any gathering. His warm personality and genuine nature left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to VIA Health Partners of Charlotte for their excellent care over the past nine months, especially Jess, his nurse, and James, his CNA. Special thanks are also extended to his dedicated caregivers from Senior Helpers who provided compassionate 24/7 care for over three years: Barbara, Ernestine, Keesha, Kow, and Eddie.

Family will receive friends and celebrate Jack's remarkable life at a time to be announced. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to the Alzheimer's Association.

Jack's journey through life, much like his travels in his beloved Austin Healeys, was filled with adventure, purpose, and joy. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charlotte Observer from Feb. 4 to Feb. 7, 2025.

Memories and Condolences
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6 Entries

Sally Patterson

February 20, 2025

So many fond memories; so many wonderful trips. Jack driving Lobelia,top down and Kathryn´ s lovely silver hair blowing in the wind.
Yep, we were ....ON THE ROAD AGAIN

Shep and Pete Foley

February 15, 2025

Though we had not been connected over the past few years we remember Jack with a smile. My husband knew him through the Mecklenburg County BAR association, a co attorney. Jack and Katherine were always a fine cheerful couple, a joy to be with, . May he rest in peace and his family be comforted in good memories til they meet again. Shep and Pete Foley

Louis Stone

February 14, 2025

Jack , please do "build a house " for all your Pika Brothers in the upstairs annex.

Chuck Reeves

February 7, 2025

As a long time member of the Carolinas Austin Healey Club, I can attest that Heaven has gained a Healey aficionado unlike any that arrived before him. Memories are crystal clear of his larger-than-life personality and how he made every adventure so enjoyable because of his joy for the time spent with all of us ... he will be missed but, one day, we will drive the roads again in a place more beautiful than any we have seen & Jack´s beach music will blare over our CB´s once again... RIP my friend - peace & love to the family & friends mourning our loss but also celebrating a life well lived as a Wolfpack Healey driver. Love ya Jack !!

Treasure and Alan Teague

February 7, 2025

We traveled many miles with Jack and Kathryn in our Healeys

Keely Churchill

February 4, 2025

Dear Aunt Kathryn, Laura and Susan,
I am so sad to hear of Uncle Jack´s death , but take great comfort in thinking of him and Daddy being reunited as best buddies!! I know your hearts are broken, but I pray they will heal as you remember all the qualities that made Uncle Jack so very special. Your family was such a cherished part of my childhood/ youth -I will always be thankful for that!
Love,
Keely Holsclaw Churchill

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