Taylor was born April 2, 1954, son of the late Jimmie and Lucille Jolliff. He grew up in Smithfield, NC where he was a force in the backfield for the Smithfield-Selma Senior High Spartans. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he made numerous lifelong friends. Just after school he started work at RJ Reynolds in the Leaf Department, where he’d spend his entire career until retiring in 2008.
He was a dedicated husband, brother, father, and friend. His memory is as filled with laughter as his absence is with tears.
He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Kay Jolliff; three sons, Jimmy Jolliff and wife Eleanor Hullihan, Reade Jolliff; Randy Jolliff and wife Joanna Hatch; a granddaughter, Dahlia Jolliff – Hullihan; and cousins, Jess Jolliff, Sherry Legge, and Ann Pollitt.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Katherine Jolliff.
A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday August 23, 2026 in the Southport Community Building in Southport.
Contributions in Taylor’s memory may be made to Saving Grace Animals for Adoption NC at www.savinggracenc.org
Peacock – Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport
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