Kelly Vickery Taylor
Kelly Vickery Taylor, 98, died Sunday, October 22, 2023, at his home with his family by his side. A lifelong member of the local community, he’s a well known and respected figure in both Bledsoe and Cumberland Counties.
He was born April 8, 1925, to Charles Gaut and Ruth Adeline (Kelly) Taylor. He was raised in Bledsoe County at the head of the Sequatchie Valley with his four older siblings. He attended John A. Patten Elementary and High School in the Melvine Community.
Mr. Taylor married Margret Frances Dixon on January 21, 1951. They were married 64 years during which they raised and loved three children, eight grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. He was proud of his family and enjoyed spending time with them.
Mr. Taylor worked hard from the time he was a young man in a variety of occupations including farming, construction, and entrepreneurship. Mr. Taylor proudly continued the legacy of farming the land began by his grandfather and father. He also spent time in Bermuda constructing hotels with his brother-in-law, Ernest Dixon Jr. and family beginning in 1969.
In the ‘70s, he enjoyed managing the General Store at Fall Creek Falls State Park. Mr. Taylor also owned and operated Taylor Brothers Sand Quarry in Crab Orchard alongside his brothers, Charles and James. When he reached the age for retirement, his two sons maintained the business for many more years. Mr. Taylor was known for a quiet demeanor, dedication to his family, patience, and hard work.
He is survived by his three children: Kelly Vickery “Vic” (Marjorie) Taylor, Jr. of Crossville, Michael Rhea “Mike” Taylor of Pikeville, Cecilia “Annette” Taylor of Ball Ground, Georgia; eight grandchildren: Scarlett L. (Brent) Measles, Jennifer R. Taylor (Martin) Dyhr, William Kelly (Jamie) Taylor, Rachel M. (Kenny) Martin, John Michael (Leah) Taylor, Lucas Buford Bilbrey, Kelly Ann Taylor Bilbrey, Lincoln Charles Bilbrey; seven great-grandchildren: James Armstrong and Kody Dwight Martin, Ellika Lynette and Everly Susanne Dyhr, Wyatt Kelly and Wesley Jameson Taylor, and James Bradford Taylor.
Mr. Taylor was preceded in death by his loving wife Frances (2015), his parents, and all four of his siblings: Marguerite Elizabeth (Taylor) Pointer, Charles Gaut Taylor, Celia Emeline (Taylor) Finn, and James Thomas Taylor.
A celebration of life was held at noon Thursday, October 26, at Pikeville Funeral Home. Pallbearers were William Taylor, John Taylor, Luke Bilbrey, Lincoln Bilbrey, Martin Dyhr, Kenny Martin, Brent Measles, and James Martin. He was laid to rest beside his beloved wife at Pikeville City Cemetery.
Please share condolences online at www.pikevillefuneralhome.com.
Pikeville Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements.
