Jim, 79 passed away peacefully on Friday, October 10, 2025, at Hospice Wendover in Shelby, entering the loving arms of Jesus after a life well lived.

Jim was born the fifth son of Walter and Nancy Taylor on May 3, 1946, in Franklin, North Carolina. Raised on a farm, he learned the value of hard work early in life and discovered a lifelong love for the game of football. That passion led him to Boiling Springs, NC, where he played at Gardner-Webb and met the love of his life, Cheryl.

Jim's chosen field was teaching and coaching -- a calling that became his life's work and ministry. He began his coaching career at Polk Central High School, serving from 1970 to 1974 as head football coach, track coach, and athletic director, compiling an impressive 28-12 record. In 1974, he joined Shelby High School and, in 1977, took over as head coach of the Golden Lions. Over 21 remarkable seasons, his teams earned 10 conference championships, two NCHSAA state titles, and two state runner-up finishes, amassing a 201-54-2 record.

But beyond the wins and championships, Coach Taylor's legacy is measured in the countless lives he shaped. He led with discipline, consistency, tough love, and gentle guidance, teaching lessons that reached far beyond the field. His impact as a mentor, educator, and leader will continue to echo through generations.

After retiring from coaching, Jim continued to serve his community as County Athletic Director for Cleveland County Schools and as Executive Secretary of the North Carolina Football Coaches Association.

Outside of his professional life, Jim loved working on his farm and raising cattle, a reflection of his steady nature and love for God's creation.

Jim is survived by his devoted wife, Cheryl Taylor; sons Brad Taylor and wife Melissa, and Greg Taylor and wife Mischia; grandchildren Brycen, Elease, and Kendyl; and his brother, John Taylor and wife Kay, sister in laws Betty Taylor, and Emma Jean Taylor, brother and sister in laws Joel and Kay Walker, Steve and Patti Walker and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Jim is preceded in death by his brothers Joe Taylor, Jack Taylor, Walter(Buddy) Taylor.

The family is exceedingly grateful for his tough love and gentle guidance and swells with pride for his far-reaching impact on so many.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 - 3:00 PM on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 PM on Friday, October 17, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Shelby, followed by burial at Pleasant Ridge Baptist Church Cemetery.


Memorial Donations may be made to Shelby High School Athletic Booster Club directed to the TC Strickland Gate: P.O. Box 906 Shelby, NC 28151

Rest in peace, Coach.

Online condolences may be shared at www.cecilmburtonfuneralhome.com.

Cecil M. Burton Funeral Home is honored to serve the family or Coach Taylor.