COLUMBUS, Ga. — Mr. Earl Taylor, a devoted public servant, proud veteran, and cherished family man, passed away peacefully on October 7, 2025, at the age of 81. His life was a testament to service, love, and dedication, leaving a lasting impact on his family, friends, and community.
A funeral service honoring Mr. Taylor’s remarkable life will be held at 12:00 noon EDT, Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Golden Acres Baptist Church, with Rev. Jonathan Taylor officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Monday evening, October 13, from 6–8 PM EDT, at Golden Acres Baptist Church.
Born on July 11, 1944, in Graceville, Florida, Hubert—known affectionately as Earl—lived a life shaped by commitment, integrity, and compassion. His journey of service began with the United States Navy, which he joined in 1963. Over six years, he served honorably as a sailor stationed in San Diego and Los Angeles, California, including two tours in Vietnam, exemplifying courage, dedication, and patriotism.
Following his military service, Earl dedicated himself to public safety. He spent 20 years with the Phenix City Fire Department, serving as a firefighter, fire marshal, and arson investigator. His commitment to protecting others then led him to the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, where he devoted over 30 years as a deputy, serving under three different sheriffs—including his eldest son, Heath—a reflection of the family legacy of service he inspired.
Earl also worked 15 years as an executive chauffeur for Aflac, demonstrating the same dedication and professionalism that characterized every chapter of his career. Across all his roles—military, law enforcement, fire service, and private sector—he earned the respect and admiration of colleagues and community members alike.
In August 2025, Earl celebrated 62 years of marriage with his high school sweetheart and lifelong companion, Thelma (Nelson) Taylor. Their enduring love and partnership were central to his life, providing a source of joy and strength through every stage of his journey.
Earl is survived by his loving family: his wife Thelma; sons Heath (Kristi) Taylor and Shawn (Christy) Taylor; grandchildren Coleson (Taylor), Sierra, Heather (Logan), Tristan, Dalton Cook (Taylor), Casey McDaniel (C J), and John Paul Lemieux; brothers John Edward Taylor and Thomas Eugene Taylor; and sister-in-law Linda Griffin. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hubert Thomas Taylor and Nellie Bell Taylor.
Beyond his professional achievements and family devotion, Earl was known for his warm spirit, infectious personality, and generosity of heart. He had a love for bluegrass music, a playful competitive streak in poker games, and an endearing habit of holding every baby he met, sharing his gentle affection with all generations. He was also a proud member of Golden Acres Baptist Church, serving his community with devotion and faith.
Earl’s legacy lives on not only in the lives he touched but also through the values of service, kindness, and joy instilled in his children, grandchildren, and extended family. His presence brought light and laughter wherever he went, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew him.
Flowers may be sent, or donations may be made in his memory to the Russell Child Advocacy Center at www.rccac.org. Condolences can be left online at www.vancebrooksfuneralhome.net.
May the memory of Earl Taylor continue to inspire and comfort all who knew and loved him.