John Ivery Taylor

The Life and Legacy of a Humble Servant Deacon John (Johnny) Ivery Taylor Deacon John (Johnny) Ivery Taylor, born on June 5, 1936, in Crandall, Texas, to John S. Lewis and Gertrude Sands, later joined in matrimony to Rev. Richard Taylor. Deacon Taylor began his educational journey the Kaufman County School District. His spiritual journey commenced at an early age in Terrell, TX, and later, after relocating to Dallas, TX, he became an esteemed member of St. Paul Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. C. D. Knight. Deacon Taylor diligently served on the usher board and contributed significantly to the transportation ministry, driving the church van. His steadfast commitment extended to serving as a Deacon until his health began to decline. Preceding him in death are his parents, John S. Lewis and Gertrude Sands Taylor, his first wife, Roschelle Jacco, his second wife, Oretha B. Taylor, stepson Reginal Taylor, and son-in-law Medero Hardge. Deacon Taylor's professional journey spanned 30 years (1958-1991) with the City of Dallas in the water department, where he ascended to a supervisory role. Post-retirement, he dedicated an additional 30 years to St. Paul Baptist Church, engaging actively in the transportation ministry and homeless ministry. His leisure hours were committed to supporting the church in diverse capacities. A man of few words, Deacon Taylor left an indelible impact on the lives of fellow church members and earned the respect of the younger generation through his patience and dedication to the children's ministry. As a grandfather, he devoted considerable time to his grandchildren, portraying dependability, forward-thinking, hands-on involvement, and consistently providing sound advice. Even as his dementia progressed, Deacon Taylor maintained his nightly prayer routine and continued to bless his meals. Revelations 2:10 guided his unwavering faith: "Be faithful to God, even to the point of Death – Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer… Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give your life as your victor's crown." Deacon Taylor leaves to cherish his most precious memories in the minds and hearts of his family. His daughter, Joyce Jackson Hardge, 2 sons, Johnny Ray Taylor, Ricky Taylor, step-daughter Ramona Taylor, step-son Christopher Newsome; his grandchildren Samiki Taylor (Shauntilia) (7 great-grandchildren & 15 great- great-grandchildren), Kyhsa Kirby (Derce) (1 great-grandson), Sykio Taylor (3 great-grandchildren & 3 great-great- grandchildren), Kashemia Washington (Robert) (4 great-grandchildren), Katiauna Dates, John Dates, Michael Jackson (2 great-grandchildren), Orom Jackson (4 great-grandchildren), Dale Taylor (Shannon) (2 great-grandchildren), Jeronica Taylor (1 great-grandson), Charles Gee, Lee White, Keldrick Barron (8 great-grandchildren), Kameshia Barron, K. Frances Barron (1 great-grandchild), Keilon Barron (1 great-grandchild), special granddaughters Lanelle Johnson (2 great grandsons) Jean Johnson (1 great grandson) and LaWanda Benn 4 great grandchildren); his last aunt Yvonne Sands, a host of many family members, friends and St. Paul Baptist Church family.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.laurellanddallas.com for the Taylor family.