George Thomas "Big Daddy" Taylor, Jr.

George “Big Daddy” Thomas Taylor, Jr., 72, passed away at his residence in Gastonia, North Carolina on January 22, 2026.

He was born in Gaston County on August 5, 1953 to the late George Thomas Taylor, Sr. and Eva Nell Cochran Taylor. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 40 years, Delores Taylor; daughter, Crystal Parker; Brother Lonnie Taylor, William “Rabbit” Taylor, and Michael Taylor; sisters, Peanut Bolin and Carolyn Funderburk; niece, Beth Ledford; and nephew, Jerry Funderburk.

George was a devoted man who loved God, and enjoyed being outdoors fishing and camping. He was a fantastic dad, loved his family, and his dog, Max. He will be remembered and loved by his family who thought of him as an amazing uncle and awesome brother. George was the grouchiest sweetest man ever and had a big heart who loved everyone. He leaves many happy memories to be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his children, Tammy Jo Taylor, Debbie Garneau, and Michael Thomas Taylor; siblings, Dave Taylor (Ann), Aleta Broyles (Freddy), Jane Taylor Rogers, Rose Taylor Compton; grandchildren, Greg Parker, Joseph Parker, Mikayla Wilson, Katlyn Hendricks, Sydney Garrett, Hunter Knight, Ashlee Hoffman; great-grandchildren, Jaylen Taylor, Macie and Gracie Taylor, Kayden Kitchen, Alex Taylor Erby, Kinley Garrett, Jase Garrett, Walker Garrett, T.J. Hoffman, and Sawyer Hoffman; and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Tuesday February 3, 2026 from 12:00 pm until 1:30 pm at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home. A funeral service will follow at 1:30 pm in the chapel with Pastor Steve Black officiating. Burial will follow at Olney Presbyterian Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Hunter Knight, Nathaniel Rogers, Tommy Taylor, Brent Parton, Greg Mills, James Vlahovski, Dylan Ledford and Zach Garrett.

After the burial, a dinner will be provided for the family at 2600 Quail Ridge Drive, Gastonia, NC 28056.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com