Gilbert "Gib" Taylor

Gilbert "Gib" Ray Taylor, 88, of Flatwoods, Kentucky passed away Monday, February 16, 2026, at Community Hospice Care Center in Ashland, Kentucky.

He was born on February 16, 1938, in Paintsville, Kentucky to the late Burt Harrison Taylor and Brida Castle. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife Marlene Ratliff Taylor and by two sisters Barbara Rice and Betty Blanton.

Gib is survived by his wife, Lavona Cox Taylor of Elliott County, Kentucky, one son Gregory Bert Taylor of Flatwoods, two daughters, Marla Raye Strait and her husband Timothy of Ashland, Lisa Gay Adams and her husband Tim of Ashland, four grandchildren, Danielle Mason (Griffin), Candace Curd, Lauren Strait, and Erin Strait, one great grandson who was his pride and joy Brady Andrew Mason, three nieces, Jeanie Blanton, LaDonna Lally and Debra Pyron and a host of other family members and friends who will sadly miss him.

Gib was a proud son of Big Mud Lick in Johnson County, Kentucky, where his roots ran deep and his character was shaped by hard work, faith, and a love for his community. A graduate of Flat Gap High School, Gib carried the values he learned there throughout his life. For 30 years, he worked as a skilled boiler maker with Local 105, a trade he mastered with dedication and pride. He was a true union man, respected by his brothers for his work ethic, steady hands, and unwavering loyalty. Gib believed in doing a job right the first time, and he gave his all to every task set before him.

His faith was the cornerstone of his life. A devoted member of Hoods Creek Freewill Baptist church, Gib served faithfully in whatever capacity was needed, never seeking recognition, only seeking to serve. He was a steady presence, a helping hand, and a quiet example of what it meant to live out one's faith. Gib was known for his warm spirit and straightforward way of speaking. In the middle of many conversations, he would often smile and say, "we're not jerks," a simple phrase that perfectly captured his belief in treating others with kindness, fairness, and humility. Above all, Gib will be remembered as a hardworking man, a faithful servant, and a friend who left this world better than he found it.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 PM, Friday, February 20, 2026, at Hoods Creek Freewill Baptist Church (4018 KY-5, Ashland, KY 41102) with Brother Sheldon Wheeler, Larry Barker, and Bryan Flannery officiating. Burial will follow in Bellefonte Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be from 6:00 PM till 8:00 PM, Thursday, February 19, 2026, at Carman Funeral Home and 12:00 PM till the service hour, Friday, February 20, 2026, at Hoods Creek Freewill Baptist Church.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hoods Creek Freewill Baptist Church.

All Arrangements for Gilbert "Gib" Ray Taylor are under the direction and care of Carman Funeral Home, 2301 Argillite Rd. Flatwoods, Kentucky 41139.