James Irvin Taylor, Jr

James Irvin Taylor, Jr., a loving husband, father, grandfather and friend, died at 89 years old on December 30th, 2019. He was born in Edgecombe County on February 1st, 1930 to James Irvin and Bonnie Pope Taylor.

Educated in local schools, he attended Wake Forest College and was a Duke University alumni. In 1953, he met Peggy Pruitt, a graduating nurse, and decided she was the one for him. They married in 1954, spent most of their 65 years together in Edgecombe County, where they raised their four children and later welcomed six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Jim served in the United States Navy as a hospital corpsman. After discharge, he was employed in various fields, including a stint at WCPS radio station in Tarboro and farming in the area. At age 53, he decided to acquire his dream job – attended Edgecombe Community College and after receiving an associate degree in nursing, began his last and favorite career – as a registered nurse at Edgecombe General Hospital, later Heritage Hospital and currently Vidant Edgecombe Hospital, where he was a valued and skilled part of the critical care team. Jim was a much loved team member and mentor to everyone he ever met.

A devoted member of Calvary Episcopal church, he sang in the adult choir, served on the Vestry, was a layreader and traveled to Costa Rica three times on medical mission trips. Prior to spending 30 years on the Edgecombe Community College Board of Trustees, he was a chairman of the Edgecombe County School Board. A lifelong avid reader, Jim’s personal library grew with every new interest.

He is survived by his wife Peggy Pruitt Taylor, daughter Beverly and Pete Vuncannon of Jackson Springs, North Carolina, sons Jay and Diane of Wake Forest, North Carolina, Gray and Ginger of Tarboro, North Carolina, Michael and Cindy of Clayton, North Carolina, also 6 beloved grandchildren, Charlotte and husband Justin, Brooke and husband Chase, John, Andy, Grayson, Dylan, and three great grandchildren that reside in California.

Visitation – Carlisle Funeral Home, Thursday January 2nd from 5-7 pm.

Funeral Service – Calvary Episcopal Church, Friday January 3rd at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to the Calvary Episcopal Church Preservation Trust, Edgecombe Community College Foundation or a charity of your choice.

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