David graduated from Deschler High School in Tuscumbia, Alabama. A multisport athlete, he went on to play baseball at the University of Maryland. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree at the University of North Alabama before attending New Orleans Seminary, where he earned his Master of Divinity.
David served as a Southern Baptist pastor for several years including serving with the Billy Graham crusade in Russia before transitioning to a successful career in financial planning. As a certified financial planner, he served the greater Atlanta area for more than 30 years.
David was an avid golfer and fisherman and enjoyed cheering on the Atlanta Braves and the Alabama Crimson Tide and following all major golf tournaments. His creativity found expression in both art and music. His artwork hangs in many homes as well as the University of Alabama’s Bear Bryant Museum and ESPN headquarters, offering a lasting reminder of his talent. Music was a joy he shared with his family. On Thursday evenings, he could often be found playing guitar and singing with the local Marietta band, Brother Whitlock. David’s love for history was evident in many ways but most notably as family historian.
David is survived by his wife of 30 years, Kerri Taylor; his six children, Kristen Brewer (Ben Brewer), Beth Schweigert (Brett Schweigert), Lee Taylor (Julie Taylor), Nicholas Taylor (Lyndsey Taylor), Brittany Harvey (James Harvey), and Kelly Shiver (Jacob Shiver); his brothers, Michael Taylor (Missy Taylor) and Bryan Taylor (Brenda Taylor), Glen Patterson (Kelly Patternson); and his sister, Kaye Balentine (Jerry Balentine). To his fifteen grandchildren, he was lovingly known as “Papa,” and to several nieces and nephews, he was “Uncle David.” He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and stepfather.
David’s love for the Lord and commitment to sharing the gospel were woven into every part of his life. His faith touched many who knew him and remains a cherished part of his legacy. His family will carry his memory in the music he shared, the art he created, and the faith he lived. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered on this side of heaven.
Visitation will be held at Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home, 2950 North Cobb Pkwy, Kennesaw, GA 30152, US, on October 26, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 2:00 pm, followed by a Celebration of David's Life at Winkenhofer Pine Ridge Funeral Home at 2:00 pm.
A Committal Service will take place at Pineridge Memorial Park, 2950 North Cobb Pkwy, Kennesaw, GA 30152, US, on October 26, 2026, from 3:00 pm to 3:30 pm, and a Catered Repass will follow at the Event House, 2950 Cobb Parkway North, Kennesaw, Georgia 31052, on October 26, 2026, from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm.
In addition to flowers, donations in David's memory would be greatly appreciated to a St. Jude's Children Research Hospital through the link below
