Gail Taylor age 88 of Valle Crucis passed away Saturday June 7, 2025, at N.C. Wake Forest Baptist Hospital.

He was born May 11, 1937, in Watauga County.

It is with deep love and gratitude for a life well-lived that we gather together today to celebrate  the life of Pop Pop who was a beloved veteran, husband, father, grandfather, and friend  who left this world at the age of 88.  He led a long life, full of service to his country and service to the land.

Gail Taylor  served his country honorably after World War II as a soldier in the U.S. Army by working in the demilitarized zone in Germany as a border patrol officer—steadfast, disciplined, and ever watchful in the pursuit of peace as the world began picking up the pieces in the aftermath of a ravenous war.

Upon returning home, he dedicated over 30 years of his life to the Department of Correction, where his firm but fair presence earned him respect from colleagues and inmates alike.   His career was not an easy one where just as he did in the military, he maintained discipline and law in order to serve the greater good.  His commitment to duty extended beyond his professional life into every role he took on—as a father to four children, as a steward of the land, and as a tireless worker who never stopped giving.

For his entire life, he lovingly tended the family farm in Valle Crucis, raising cattle and keeping the traditions of rural life alive with quiet strength. After retiring, he embraced a new chapter with his beloved wife, Peggy. Together, they found joy in antiquing, traveling through the Carolinas and nearby states, and running antique booths in Boone and Foscoe. Wherever they went, they explored the surrounding  areas for rare finds that brought charm and beauty to the world.

Perhaps the most touching testament to his gentle spirit was the years he and Peggy spent breeding Pomeranians—tiny, fluffy companions who responded to his steady hand and kind heart. It was a quiet irony that such a tough man could be so gentle, but for those who knew him, it was no surprise.  It was also quite funny to look at such a big tough guy sporting around a five pound yippy dog.   Strength and tenderness lived side by side in him.

Pop Pop leaves behind a legacy of hard work, quiet love, and unwavering dedication to his family.  While he wasn't overly affectionate, he would want all of us who loved him to know how much he loved us in return.  He would want all of us to be dedicated stewards to the Lord, be the most successful that we can do, and work hard in all of our endeavors to secure good lives. Thank you for being a part of this celebration with us.

He is survived by two sons, Michael Taylor of Valle Crucis and Sam Taylor of Blowing Rock; two daughters, Teresa Beshears of Valle Crucis and Angela Taylor of Valle Crucis; three step-daughters, Kathy Otto of Sugar Grove; Sherry Hollars of Zionville; and Susan Bunton of Albemarle; two step-sons, Bobby McDonald and Tommy McDonald both of Sugar Grove; grandchildren, Tyler Beshears of Blowing Rock; Carrington Taylor of Boone; Lillian Grace Taylor of Blowing Rock; Jordyn Canter of Valle Crucis and Jamie Canter of Valle Crucis; Great-granddaughter, Addie Taylor and nine step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother Edith Pearl Taylor and his wife Peggy Taylor.

Funeral services will be conducted at 4:00 PM Tuesday June 17, 2025, at Holy Cross Episcopal Church. Interment will follow in Holy Cross Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 3:00 until 4:00, prior to the service.

Flowers are appreciated or memorials may be made to the DAV #90, PO Box 2914 Boone NC 28607.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.hamptonfuneralnc.com

Hampton Funeral and Cremation Service is in charge of the arrangements.