James E. Taylor, “Jimmy,” age 85, of Ranson, went to his heavenly home on Monday, November 12, 2018 at the Willow Springs Nursing Home.
Born November 21, 1932, in Charles Town, he was the son of the late Ella Taylor and Silas C. Johnson, Sr. He was educated in Jefferson County schools, attending Eagle Avenue and then Page Jackson High School. After high school, Jimmy joined the Army. While enlisted, he pursued his interest in boxing. “Big Jim,” as he was known, was the Heavyweight Champion of the 7th Cavalry and reached his goal of becoming a professional boxer. Jimmy started his career at Charles Town Race Track in the early ‘80’s as a Jockey Agent for Jockey Jimmy Thornton. He also worked as the Race Track Clocker until 1995 when he became the Stall Superintendent. He retired in 2014, after 29 years of service. Prior to his illness, he was a faithful member of the Wainwright Baptist Church where he served on the Board of Trustees.
Jimmy leaves to cherish his memories daughters Tanielle Hagamin, and husband Kenwood, and Mildred Baldwin; son, Tracy Blue; his brother and best friend, Paul D. Johnson, Sr.; 3 sisters: Ardalia Taylor, Glenda Grantham and Deborah Layton, and husband Derwin; sister-in-law, Elder Sylvia Davis; 2 grandchildren: Tevon, and wife Renee, and Kenwood, III; 3 great grandchildren: Jaden, London and Rick; a goddaughter, Bernadette Hill, and husband Ellsworth, and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.
In addition to his parents: Jimmy was preceded in death by the love of his life, Bonita Prather, a brother, Silas C. Johnson, Jr.; daughter, Beverly, and sister-in-law, Brenda Johnson.
A funeral service with military honors will be held 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 20, 2018, at the Wainwright Baptist Church with the Rev. Walter Jackson officiating. Interment will be private. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.