William Carl Taylor left this life peacefully on Friday July 5, 2024. 

He died at his home in Gumberry, NC less than 200 feet from the location of his birth. 

He was the third of four children of Andrew Ellis and Lottie Howell Taylor. 

Except for leaving to attend two years of college and serving two years in the 2nd Armored Division in post war Germany, he lived his entire life in the Gumberry community.

Carl lived a rich and full 95 years. 

He loved farming, worked hard, and tended land along the Roanoke River in Northampton and Halifax counties. In his younger days baseball was his passion. He was an accomplished pitcher for Seaboard High School, Oak Ridge Military Institute, and Chowan College; recording only one career loss.

Carl met the love of his life, Dorothy, in 1957 shortly after she was assigned as the new train station clerk at the Seaboard Railroad depot in Gumberry. They celebrated 65 years of marriage.

In his retirement years, Carl's farming energies were poured into his prolific gardens. He shared his produce freely with his neighbors and continued to do so through his 94th birthday.

 He was also an avid hunter, an activity he greatly enjoyed with friends and family since boyhood.

Carl Taylor's faith in God was essential to him and he was a lifelong member of Pleasant Grove Methodist Church. Carl treasured his family and valued his extended family relationships. Many times, he remarked with satisfaction that he had over 50 first cousins.

Mr. Taylor was preceded in death by his three siblings with whom he was very close: Andrew H. Taylor, Frances Taylor Stephenson, and Edward D. Taylor. 

In addition to his widow Dorothy, Carl is survived by his three sons and their wives: Lee (Noel) Taylor, Craig Taylor, and Ellis (Christina) Taylor. Carl has three grandchildren: Hannah (Alex) Headley, Joy Taylor, and Reagan Taylor, and one great grandchild: Adelaine Headley. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday July 9th at Pleasant Grove Methodist Church (near Jackson) at 10 am. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Rev. Robert Hill officiating.

The family wishes to express its appreciation to the many who have offered prayers and extended acts of kindness during this time of sorrow as well as during Carl’s illness. 

We also recognize the invaluable care team of B.J. Avens, Diane Schmeer, Joyce Winston, Evora Miles, Kimothy Parker, Joslyn Rivers and Gentiva Hospice Care that have made it possible for Carl and Dorothy to remain in their home.

Memorial donations may be directed to the Pleasant Grove Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, or the charity of one’s choice.