Earl Taylor

Mr. Earl Taylor, a devoted public servant, proud veteran, and beloved family man, passed away on October 7, 2025, in Columbus, Georgia. He was 81 years old.

A funeral service honoring Mr. Taylor’s life will be held 12:00 noon EDT, Tuesday October 14, 2025 at Golden Acres Baptist Church with Rev. Jonathan Taylor officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening from 6-8 PM EDT, at Golden Acres Baptist Church.

Born on July 11, 1944, in Graceville, Florida, Hubert—known to many as Earl—lived a life marked by dedication, service, and unwavering love for his family and community. His journey began with a deep commitment to his country when he enlisted in the United States Navy in 1963. Over the course of six years, he served honorably as a sailor stationed in San Diego and Los Angeles, California. During this time, he completed two tours in Vietnam, exemplifying courage and patriotism.

Following his military service, Earl continued to serve others through a distinguished career in public safety. He spent two decades with the Phenix City Fire Department where he held roles as a firefighter, fire marshal, and arson investigator. His passion for justice and community protection led him to the Russell County Sheriff's Office, where he served for over 30 years as a deputy under three different sheriffs—one of whom was his eldest son Heath—a testament to the legacy of service he inspired within his own family.

Earl’s professional life also included 15 years as an executive chauffeur for Aflac. Across all four careers—the Navy, National Guard, fire service, law enforcement, and private sector—he gave his all with integrity and pride. He retired from each role having left an indelible mark on those he worked alongside.

In August of this year, Earl celebrated 62 years of marriage with his high school sweetheart and lifelong companion, Thelma (Nelson) Taylor. Their enduring bond was a cornerstone of his life and a source of strength through every chapter.

Earl is lovingly remembered by his wife Thelma; his sons Heath (Kristi) and Shawn (Christy); his grandchildren Coleson (Taylor), Sierra, Heather (Logan), Tristan, Dalton Cook (Taylor), Casey McDaniel (C J) and John Paul Lemieux; his brothers John Edward Taylor and Thomas Eugene Taylor; and sister-in-law Linda Griffin. He was preceded in death by his parents Hubert Thomas Taylor and Nellie Bell Taylor.

Beyond his professional accomplishments and family devotion, Earl was known for his warm spirit and infectious personality. He never met a stranger—his welcoming nature made everyone feel like family. He had a deep love for bluegrass music that filled many joyful gatherings with song. A good poker game brought out his competitive side and laughter among friends. And perhaps most memorably, he had an irresistible urge to hold every baby he encountered—a gesture that reflected the tenderness at the heart of who he was.

Earl’s presence brought light into every room he entered. His legacy lives on not only through the lives he touched professionally but also through the generations of family who carry forward his values of service, kindness, and joy.

Additionally, he was a proud member of Golden Acres Baptist Church.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and continue to inspire all who follow in his footsteps.

Flowers will be accepted or donations may be made to Russell Child Advocacy Center at www.rccac.org