Peggy Taylor

1941 - 2025

Peggy Surber Taylor embarked on her final journey November 2, 2025, entering heaven with the same spirit of adventure that defined her life. Peggy's passion for travel took her across the United States and to distant lands in Europe and Asia. Her greatest joy came from sharing these travels with her beloved husband of 47 years, her children, and her grandchildren.

Born on October 8, 1941, in Saltville, Virginia, Peggy was the second child and eldest daughter of Norman and Betty Surber, the first of six girls. She and her brother mentored their sisters, guiding and inspiring them through life. Peggy held education in high regard. After welcoming her first daughter, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts in English from Emory and Henry University. Upon completing her degree and after the birth of her second daughter, Peggy supported her husband as he completed his own education at Emory and Henry.

The family eventually settled in Abingdon, Virginia, where Peggy spent 20 years as a dedicated schoolteacher. Later, she transitioned to a new role as an insurance agent at Farm Bureau. Peggy was an active member of Glenroachie Country Club, enjoying tennis and golf until the passing of her husband. Her adventurous spirit led her to embrace new experiences, always ready to travel, visit family, ski, swim, play tennis, or golf. Though she admitted she lacked coordination, Peggy was undeterred and always gave her best effort.

Above all, Peggy cherished her family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Sylvester Taylor; her parents, Norman and Betty Surber; her brother, Gene Surber; her sisters, Sue Buff and Teresa Surber; her nieces, Susan Buff, Leslie Spence, and Nikki Allison; and her in-laws, Alonzo Buff and Lena Surber.

Peggy leaves behind her daughters, Lora Klein (Frank) and Jana Carico (Brad); her grandchildren, Steven, Kelly, and Mark Cason, Amanda and Matthew Maynard, and Jacob Carico. She is also survived by her sisters, Billie Jo (Ron) Melbourne, Mary (Ted) Snow, and Elaine Surber, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and all her Branson brothers-in-law, who delighted in her good-natured gullibility. These include Johnny (Donna), Boby (Barbara, deceased), Dooger (Sam), Jack (Darcy), Bobby, and Billy (deceased), along with their sister Linda (Allen) Cardwell (deceased).

Peggy will be deeply missed by all who know her. She was fiercely strong, independent, and always strived to do her best, encouraging others to do the same. Peggy was generous and always willing to help those in need. Her love for her family and friends was boundless and unwavering.

A celebration of life and legacy will be held at Pleasant View Methodist Church on 15 November 2025 at 2 pm to share love, stories, and memories. The church is located at 18416 Lee Hwy, Abingdon, VA 24210. In lieu of flowers, we encourage donations to the Alzheimer's Association.