Johnnie Taylor

AVILLA — Johnnie R. Taylor, 68, of Avilla and formerly of Rome City died Friday, October 14, 2016, in his residence.
He had lived in the Noble County area since 1978, coming from Anderson.
Mr. Taylor retired after 20 years from Essex Wire in Kendallville.
He was born November 24, 1947, in Livingston, Tennessee, to Norma Nell Taylor.
On February 16, 1972, in Anderson he married Karon S. Burris. She survives in Avilla.
Also surviving are four daughters, Eugenia "Gina" (Matthew) Myers of Avilla, Katha (Felix) Short of Elkhart, Serrena (Wilts) Short of Wolcottville, and Darinda (Eddie) Combs of Wolcottville; a son, Daniel (Amanda) Taylor of Wolcottville; 18 grandchildren, Bethann Handshoe, Jonni Kay Griffith, James Barrett, Johnathan Short, Jeffrey Short, Katrina Taylor, Zachariah Cook, Rena Rosales, David Short, Brandon Short, Brianna Combs, Brenden Cook, Jaleana Short, Talon Taylor, Gracie Short, Gabriel Taylor, Kamryn Myers and Luna Taylor; 21 great-grandchildren; two nephews, Erick and Michael Rinker of Anderson; and special friends of 35 years, Renee Sturdivant of Rome City and her children, Derik, Jessica, and David.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Norma Nell Miller; stepfather Hobart Miller; a sister, Edith Rinker; and a niece, Lindra Rinker.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 5, 2016, at 2 p.m. in Liberty Free Will Baptist Church, 2900 E. 1150 N-57, Wolcottville, with Pastor Billy Fields and Pastor Travis Moore officiating.
Preferred memorials are to the family.
Young Family Funeral Home, Kendallville Chapel, 222 South State Street, Kendallville is assisting the family with arrangements.
Condolences may be sent to the family at www.youngfamilyfuneralhome.com.