Arthur Vernon Taylor

On Saturday, October 15, 2022, Arthur Vernon Taylor, beloved father, peacefully passed away at age eighty-six. Vernon was born on July 26, 1936, in Fairfield, FL to Ruby Jane and William Martin Taylor. He was an avid musician, singing and playing the guitar over 75 years. He served six years in the National Guard earning the rank of Sergeant, then began a 30-year career with Fruit Growers Express/CSX, retiring in 1993. He was married to the love of his life, Frances for nearly 60 years and they raised 4 children.

He loved to read the Bible and had a strong Faith in God that he would share with anyone. He was a dedicated husband, father and Papa. There were days he would pull in from work just long enough to pick up the boys and head squirrel hunting down at Old Single Grave. He enjoyed fishing, playing softball and was an expert scorekeeper, so much so he knew more than ALL the umpires and referees.

He loved being outside and his yard, fishpond and El Camino provided endless opportunity. He was rarely idle after retirement and spoke fondly of the years he worked with The Men of Action. He was just a phone call away for any of his family if there was a need; be it helping to build a house, remodel a kitchen or furnish a new back porch with handmade Adirondack chairs.

He is survived by his 4 children: David, Dale (Pam), Darren (Becky) and Diane. His sister Reba and brothers Marvin and Jimmy. His grandchildren Tiffany Drady, Ryan Gearin, Crystal Ricketts, Taylor Ricketts, Jessica Taylor, Nicholas Taylor, Caleb Taylor and Megan Clanney and numerous great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother William “Bubba” and his wife, Frances.

A service to celebrate his life will be Saturday, October 22, 2022, with visitation at 11:00am, service at 12:00pm, interment to follow. Hardage-Giddens Chapel Hills, 850 St. John’s Bluff Road, Jacksonville, FL 32225