Howard M. "Jack" Taylor

February 9, 1934 - October 5, 2020

Howard M. "Jack" Taylor passed into heaven on Monday, October 5, 2020. He was born on February 9, 1934 to the late Howard F. Taylor and Kate Denton Taylor. He was proceeded in death by his brother, Steve. His first occupation was with C&O Railroad but he retired from VDOT in 1991 followed by consulting work with Thompson & Litton, Anderson & Associates and other engineering companies. While he received many accolades throughout his career, his greatest pleasure came from the many friendships he made. For over 60 years, Jack was a faithful and active member of Abingdon Bible Church, serving as deacon, missions committee member, trustee and church administrator. He was also a dedicated member of the McCabe Lodge, I.O.O.F. He loved connecting missionaries, friends and family members through his enjoyment of ham operating, WA4JME. Through all of these, he made deep and lasting friendships. Family was the most important to him and he made such wonderful memories for all. Those left to cherish his love are his sweetheart of nearly 65 years and true love of his life, Shirley, his first born child, daughter, Kathy; his daughter and devoted son-in-law, Karen and Bob Cheers; his grandchildren, Natalie (Josh Linkous), Nathan, Jamie, Jimmy and Jesse; and 8 great grandchildren; his brother, Jerry (Carol), sisters, Glenneth, Ruth Ann and Jean (Jeff); brother-in-law, Ernest; sister-in-laws, Barbara and Mona; and many very special nieces and nephews. In honoring his enjoyment of the great outdoors, there will be a service officiated by his friend and Pastor, Paul Bufford, at the Zion Cemetery in Damascus, VA at 10:30 A.M. on Friday, October 9, 2020. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Abingdon Bible Church Memorial Fund, PO Box 843, Abingdon, VA 24212; or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online condolences can be sent to the family and viewed by visiting www.garrettfuneralhome.com. Mr. Taylor and his family are in the care of Garrett Funeral Home, 203 N. Shady Ave., Damascus, VA 24236; ph.#: 276-475-3631