Thomas C. Taylor

Published 9:43 am Tuesday, May 6, 2025

HARRELLSVILLE – Thomas Coleman Taylor, affectionately known as Coleman, passed away peacefully on May 5, 2025, in Hertford County, North Carolina, the county of his birth, at the age of 87.

Born on July 31, 1937, in Hertford County, Coleman lived a life deeply rooted in the soil and traditions of his beloved home. After being born just five miles away, he spent his entire adult life contributing to the community as a dedicated farmer, a calling he embraced wholeheartedly throughout his years.

Coleman’s love for the land was matched by his passion for college basketball, which he enjoyed watching with great fervor. When he wasn’t tending to his crops, you could find him indulging in his other favorite pastime—fishing, a peaceful retreat that brought him joy and contentment.

A devout member of Christian Harbor Baptist Church, Coleman’s faith guided him throughout his life. Though he sought no accolades, those who knew him can attest to his humble nature and unwavering commitment to family and community.

He was preceded in death by his cherished parents, Monte Newsome Taylor and Thomas A. Taylor, and his beloved wife, Jane McGee Taylor. Coleman is survived by his loving daughter, Beth Smith, and her husband, Joseph “Joey” of Apex, NC.

The family will receive friends on Thursday evening, May 8, 2025, from 6-7:30 p.m. at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service in Ahoskie, NC. A celebration of Coleman’s life will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 9, 2025, at Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel, with Rev. Joe Futrell officiating. Burial will follow at Harrellsville Cemetery in Harrellsville, NC. Honored to serve as pallbearers are Joe Holloman, Tommy Matthews, George McGee, Billy Mizelle, Brian Pearce, and Quinn Vaughan.

Flowers are welcome or memorial donations may be made to Christian Harbor Church, PO Box 326, Harrellsville, NC 27942 or online by visiting tmcfunding.com/search funding, type-Coleman Taylor or to the charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.garrettsykesfs.com. The care of Mr. T. Coleman Taylor and his family has been entrusted to Garrett-Sykes Funeral Service – Ahoskie Chapel, Ahoskie, NC 27910.