William Henry Taylor

William Henry Taylor
July 10, 1941 -- January 25, 2016
Mobile, Alabama

William Henry Taylor - a family man, friend, cattleman, businessman, outdoorsman, gardener, a true southern gentleman and a genuine storyteller - died on Monday, January 25, 2016.
William was a big man in every way. He put his family first and served as the family patriarch, affectionately and appropriately known by family and close friends as ""Big Daddy."" A robust 6'3"" frame was rounded out by his a deep southern voice that could be equally gentle as stern (when needed to be). He dished out love abundantly and discipline judiciously. For example, he named his brown leather belt ""Brownie"" and commanded immediate attention with just a simple offer to ""Dance with Brownie"" when his kids got out of hand.
Born in the house he grew up in rural Alabama, William never forgot his roots and the importance of love of family. Growing up in Perry County, Alabama, he worked with his hands and understood the value of hard work and an honest living - values he instilled in those around him.
A friend to those he both loved and liked, he built his relationships on trust and honesty. William would routinely give his trust to those who he had business dealings - giving many a second chance (or even a third chance) to prove themselves trustworthy.
Owner of Crown Oil Company, he guided his family and his business with both strength and integrity during hurricanes, tough business times and the then on to better times.
William loved to be in the woods. An avid deer hunter, he enjoyed all aspects of being outdoors, especially spending family time at the hunting camp. He also enjoyed raising cattle and loved his dogs and cats. He always grew more vegetables in order to share with friends and neighbors.
Growing up, eating chicken was a constant staple. So much so, that later in life he cringed at the thought of a meal that included ""yard birds."" However, he was able to retain his love of fried peach pies, collard greens, and pork chops, cornbread dipped in buttermilk, pulled pork, fresh tomatoes and Conecuh County sausage.
William graduated from Perry County High School and Marion Military Institute in Marion, Ala. Following MMI, he earned his degree in business administration from Livingston State Teachers College (now University of West Alabama).
Throughout his life, he collected great stories from a variety of firsthand experiences. These stories - which he shared with much pleasure - provided many laughs as well as examples of the virtues of common sense.
He is survived by two brothers Jerry Taylor and Conrad Taylor of Marion, Ala.; his dear wife of more than 50 years, Mary Ann Huddleston Taylor; four children William Huddleston Taylor (ne Michelle Harbin Taylor) of Prattville, Ala., Paul Arnold Taylor (ne Shannon Simpson Taylor) of Mobile, Ala., Becky Taylor Wallace (Tripp Wallace) of Haymarket, Va., Joseph Henry Taylor (Ginna Carter Taylor) of Mobile, Ala.; and nine grandchildren Zach, Wyatt, Hunter, Clarke, Mallorie, Mason, Joseph, Will, Clyde.
The family will receive visitors on Saturday, Jan. 30, 2015, from 12 noon - 2 p.m. at Mobile Memorial Gardens on Three Notch Road. Graveside services will immediately follow.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice.

Visitation

Mobile Memorial Gardens Funeral Home
6040 Three-Notch Road
Mobile, AL  36619
Saturday, January 30, 2016
12 - 2:00 PM

Service

Mobile Memorial Gardens
6100 Three-Notch Road
Mobile, AL  36619
Saturday, January 30, 2016
2:00 PM

Cemetery

Mobile Memorial Gardens
6100 Three-Notch Road
Mobile, AL  36619

Memorial Contributions

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