Virgil Taylor, age 86, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by family on January 23rd, 2026. He was a native of Bacon County born on June 10th, 1939 to the late Estelle Taylor and Alma McDonald Taylor. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Mary Elizabeth Lewis, Christine Taylor, Eliza Ann Ellis and Eula Jean Taylor and brothers, Randall Taylor and Ken Taylor.

For most of his life he was a member of Westside Congregational Methodist Church where he served as a deacon. In the years before his passing he was a devoted member of Old Pine Grove Church. Virgil spent many years serving the community of Alma and Bacon County where he was the first full time Fire Chief and later on as Chair of the County Commissioners along with many other jobs over the years.

Virgil was well known throughout Bacon County, as he never met a stranger. You could often hear his laugh before you even saw him. He always had a  friendly smile, warm hello, and hearty handshake ready for everyone. He loved working in his garden, spending time on his tractors/operating heavy machinery, and  reminiscing about days gone by. Most of all, he loved spending his time surrounded by his family and friends. Whether it be rocking on the screened in porch or finding the perfect camping spot. Nothing made him happier than being surrounded by all of his children and grandchildren.  He will be greatly missed by many, but by none more so than his wife, children, and grandchildren. His presence left a lasting impact on many and his absence will be greatly felt.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Mildred Davis Taylor of Alma;  son, Bobby Taylor (Becky) of Alma; daughter, Paula Crosby (Steve) of Douglas; two sisters, Crissalee Jarrard and Marie Barefoot (Joe) and one brother Jerry Taylor (Glenda) all of Alma; five grandchildren, Chastin Taylor of Alma, Clint Crosby (Cari Jo) of Douglas, Cody Crosby of Alma, Channing Deen (Brandon) of Alma, Duncan Taylor of Maine, Justin Sweat (Lindsey) of Alma; seven great grandchildren, Chloe Crosby, Caroline Crosby, Cammie Jaymes Crosby, Talan Altman, Ashlan Weldon, Jaxson Deen, Tristan Crosby, Kinsley Sweat; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held Monday, January 26th  at 2:00 PM at Crosby Funeral Home with Pastor Dewayne Tanner, Pastor Randy Cox, and Pastor Kenny Ellis officiating. The family will be receiving friends at the funeral home from 1pm until service time 2:00.  Internment will follow at Pine Lawn Cemetery.

Active pallbearers include Clint and Cody Crosby, Justin Sweat, Joe Barefoot, Talan Altman and Brian Ellis. All others in attendance will be considered honorary pallbearers.

Crosby Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements.