Harvey Parnell Taylor

Harvey Parnell Taylor, 77, of Person County, passed into his eternal rest on Sunday, August 17, 2025. Born in Wake County. Mr. Taylor was the son of the late Charlie Taylor and Josephine King Taylor. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his spouse Linda Gray Taylor; two sisters, Emily Taylor Chambers and Mary Catherine Taylor Jenkins. He retired from IBM after 25 years and later worked at GKN for 10 years. He was a devoted husband and father who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War.

Mr. Taylor is survived by two sons, Bradley Taylor (Mallory) of Bahama, Parnell Taylor (Megan) of Charlotte; one daughter, Tracey Taylor of Rougemont; one brother, Lannie Taylor (Nita); five grandchildren, Ava Taylor, Graham Taylor, Charlie Taylor, Stella Taylor, Selwyn Taylor.

He enjoyed time with his grandchildren, who brought him endless joy and pride. A proud Lifetime member of Durham VFW Post 2740, he volunteered in many roles, holding offices as Director, Quarter Master and Commander. He was instrumental in Post 2740 weekly operations and fundraisers and assisted in orchestrating local and district meetings. Mr. Taylor was a proud Patriot and was fiercely committed to assisting fellow veterans and proclaimed his faith in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

In his later years, he enjoyed the sunshine, boating and fishing with his brother, and fellowship at Harkers Island RV Resort & Campground, where his bright personality and generous heart earned him the well-deserved nickname "Papa Santa."

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 AM, Thursday, August 21, 2025, at Bethany Baptist Church in Rougemont with Dr. M. David Chambers officiating. Burial will follow in the Bethany Baptist Church Cemetery. Fellowship immediately following at the Bethany Baptist Church. Visitation will be held 6:30 PM Wednesday August 20 at Brooks and White Funeral Home.

The Pallbearers will be Mike Oakley, Michael Gray, Al Rhew, Lucas Clayton, Doug Ashley, Josh Oakley and Ray Brooks, Jr.

Honorary Pallbearers will be Mark Mangum, Barry Ashley, Tommy Oakley, Kirk Oakley, John Oakley, Rick Oakley and Ted Oakley.

Memorials may be made to the Disabled American Veterans, 218 Chub Lake Street, Roxboro, NC, 27573.

Condolences may be sent to www.brooksandwhite.com.