Mr. John W. Taylor, 69, of Knoxville died at 2:54 p.m. Friday, February 15, 2019 at Marigold Rehab & Healthcare Center.He was born on October 28, 1949 in Galesburg to Hollis Lavern and Isabelle (Moore) Taylor. He married Patricia A. Olson and they later divorced. He later met the love of his life, Shirley Swartzlander, and she preceded him in death in 2013.
John is survived by his children Jonathan E. Taylor of Fort Madison, Iowa and Pennie A. Taylor of Knoxville; one brother Alan L. (Virginia) Taylor of Alexandria, Virginia; and three grandchildren. He is also survived by his dear friend, Andy Montgomery.
He is preceded in death by his parents, the love of his life and one granddaughter, Charlotte Marie Sickles.
John was raised and educated in Knoxville, having graduated from Knoxville High School in 1967. In 1969, John enlisted in the U.S. Army for 3 years in Germany. Upon returning home, John attended Carl Sandburg College where he earned seven degrees. John worked as a factory electrician for PNP Fermentation and Outboard Marine Corporation, Gale Products division, retiring in 2002. In his free time he enjoyed recording movies and TV shows onto VHS and DVD format over the last several years. He was a member of the Knoxville American Legion Post #749, enjoyed watching football and listening to Rock n’ Roll music and was a connoisseur of little cigars. He will be greatly missed by his dogs, Zoey and Cooper.
Cremation will be accorded. There are no services scheduled. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
