Eugene Douglas Taylor, 82
January 6, 1944 – September 15, 2026
Eugene Douglas Taylor, 82, passed away on September 15, 2026, at Ashland Health and Rehabilitation. He was born on January 6, 1944, in Grenada, Mississippi, and lived a life marked by faith, devotion, kindness, and steady love for his family and community.
Eugene was a Christian man whose life reflected the values he held most dear. He loved the Lord above all else and remained devoted to his church, First Baptist Church of New Albany, throughout his life. He was a faithful servant in the church, where he played an important role in Vacation Bible School, served as a door greeter, and was in charge of the ushers for many years. His presence was a blessing to those who worshiped alongside him, and he was known for his warm smile, welcoming spirit, and sincere care for others.
A proud graduate of Mississippi State University, Eugene carried his education into a long and meaningful career with the Soil Conservation Service, where he worked until his retirement as the District Soil Conservationist. He approached his work with responsibility, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose. Those who knew him respected his dedication and the quiet excellence with which he served others throughout his professional life.
Eugene was a kind man with a big heart for others, and he was the definition of a true gentleman. He was loving, kind, and gentle in all that he did, and he left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him. Woodworking and hunting were among his interests, but family was truly the center of his world. He treasured every moment spent with those he loved, and he was happiest when surrounded by the people who meant the most to him.
He never ate a meal without saying the blessing, a simple but powerful reflection of the gratitude and faith that guided his life. Eugene’s example was one of humility, devotion, and steadfast love. He lived each day with a grateful heart and a deep appreciation for the many blessings he received.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene Jinkens and Ida Irene Gray Taylor; his first wife and the mother of his daughter, Betty Shackelford; his wife, Norma Williams Taylor; and one brother, Joe Taylor. He is survived by his two daughters, Loren Nelson and her husband Kirk, and Suzanne Coffey and her husband Shane; one son, Nick Bland; one brother, Gary Taylor; six grandchildren, Seth Nelson (Chelsea), Jake Nelson (Courtney), Taylor Nelson (Lauren), Ashley Coffey, Anna Grace Coffey, and Hayden Hill (Alissa); and three great-grandchildren, Waverly Nelson, Callum Nelson, and Elliot Nelson, with one great-grandchild on the way whom he was excited to meet.
Services to honor his life will be on Friday, September 18, 2026 at 5:00pm with a visitation before from 3:00 – 5:00pm all at First Baptist of New Albany. United is honored to be entrusted with these arrangements.
In lieu of flowers. Mr. Eugene requests that memorials be made to Acts 1:8 Mission Fund at First Baptist New Albany or the charity of your choice.
A special thank you to Arden Hospice and Ashland Health and Rebab, and also the home-care given by Melissa Cooper, Talona Goolsby, Danielle Cox, and Mary Boyd who have loved and taken such good care of our dad.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
