Mr. James Kenneth Taylor

      Mr. James Kenneth Taylor was a modest man, quiet and observant in his ways. He was trustworthy and traditional in his approach to his life and in his relationships. He was tough-minded with the kind of “stick to it” attitude that earned the respect of all who knew him. He was also a man who was meticulous, carefully disciplined, and orderly in virtually everything he undertook. Realistic about life, he was always at the ready, prepared to take on responsibility.

      James was born on September 19, 1949 at Booneville Hospital in Booneville, MS. He was the son of Kellous and Charlene Taylor. James grew up in Booneville, MS.

      James was raised with 6 siblings. He had one sister, Sherry, one brother, Jacky, and four half-brothers, Charles Prater, Wayne Prater, Greg Prater and Jerome Prater. James was usually involved in all sorts of activities with his siblings. He and his siblings experienced rivalries typical of a growing family, but they shared many life experiences over the years.

      As a young boy, James had a number of interests. Like most children, he enjoyed playing and making up games. He was curious about the world around him and was often eager to explore it. James was an active child who took part in baseball and basketball. He was a member of the 4-H Club. In his spare time he liked to read, hunt, and fish. To James, the most fun to be had was simply playing and spending time with his friends.

      A typical teenager, James had a fairly happy high school experience, making that critical transition from adolescence to adulthood. He enjoyed some classes more than others, having favorite subjects and teachers. The teacher he enjoyed learning from the most was Mrs Olive.

      Always considered a “good” friend to those he knew, James enjoyed a broad group of acquaintances and several very close friends during his lifetime. While growing up, some of his best friends were Ray Hearn and Johnny Cole. Later in life, he became friends with Ray Hearn, Tommy Cole, Lee Kennedy, and Jerry Fugitt.

      On July 19, 1969 James exchanged wedding vows with Linda Jean Bullard at the Baptist Church in Lawton, OK. Empathic and loyal, James was committed to making his new family happy.

      James worked hard to be a good father to his children and he did his best to fulfill their needs. James was blessed with 2, two sons, Keith and Kevin. Another blessing for James was the gift of seven grandchildren, Allison, Trevor, Johnathan, Jenalynn, Kasey, Amy, and Abbie.

      Fortunately, James enjoyed what he did for a living. Showing a strong work ethic, James worked diligently and did his best to succeed in his career. His primary occupation was Truck Driver. He was employed for different companies as a truck driver for many years. James always sought to be a team player, doing what was necessary in order to get the job done.

      James enjoyed his leisure time by taking part in various hobbies. His favorite pursuits were hunting, fishing, and camping. He was content to enjoy his favorite pastimes alone but was also willing to share his interests with others.

      James found pleasure in sports. James was also something of a sports fan and enjoyed following his favorite events whenever he had the chance to do so. Tops on his list were Football and baseball.

      Throughout his life, James was a doer and was always actively involved in professional and community organizations. Throughout his later years, James was an active member of the Freemasons, Scotish Rite Mason and Shriners.

      James enjoyed traveling and time away on vacations. It was a chance for him to renew and relax, to visit new places and experience new things. Favorite vacations included camping with family and friends.

      James was a lover of animals and cherished his pets. One of his favorites was Charlie and Lucy, Beagles. They were best friends for five or six years.

      James passed away on October 30, 2009 at At home in Booneville, MS. James fought a brave battle against COPD. He is survived by his wife Linda, two sons, Keith and Kevin, 7 Grandchildren, Allison, Trevor, Johnathan, Jenalynn, Kasey, Amy, and Abbie. Services were held at McMillan Funeral Home Chapel. James was laid to rest in Carters Chapel Cemetery in Booneville, MS.

      Simply stated, James was a good and kind person, an individual who will for all time be remembered by his family and friends as being a caring and giving person, someone who was a vital part of their lives. James leaves behind him a legacy of life-long friendships and many cherished memories. Everyone whose life he touched will always remember Mr. James Kenneth Taylor.