ROCKINGHAM — Winford Earl Taylor, “Pa,” 86, of Rockingham, completed his earthly journey and entered the gates of Heaven on Feb. 17, 2022.
Winford was born June 1, 1935 in Rockingham, a son of the late Carson and Ethel Taylor.
Winford served his country in the United States Army. He was a member of Pee Dee Baptist Church. He worked many years at Western Auto in downtown Rockingham. To this day people still refer to him as the “Western Auto Man.” He retired from Richmond County after working as a Food Stamp fraud investigator and tax collector. He served as president of Richmond Pines Country Club. He had a passion for people, never met a stranger. He really enjoyed the outdoors from fishing, hunting to playing golf. He was very talented when it came to woodworking. He spent countless hours in his “Little House” doing what he enjoyed.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of 50 years, Carolyn Kirk Taylor. Also preceding him in death were brothers Ted Taylor, J.C. Taylor and Gene Taylor; his stepmother, Edna Taylor, and her twin sister Eva Jenkins.
Those left to cherish his memory include his sons, Todd Taylor (Jennifer) and Kirk Taylor (Lisa); his beloved granddaughter, Makenzie Taylor (Chris), step-grandson Ethan Brach; fur babies Tucker, Coco, and Lily; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Also, his breakfast buddies at Bojangles, Biscuitville and Buster’s. He loved his breakfast!
A memorial service will be held on Feb. 21, 2022 at 2 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home Colonial Chapel, Rockingham. Burial will follow at Richmond Memorial Park.
The family will receive friends from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. at Carter Funeral Home Colonial Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Richmond County Hospice, Place of Grace Campus or any charity of your choice.
Carter Funeral Home is assisting the Taylor family.
