Harry Taylor Sr.
77, Columbia
Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. on Monday, Sept. 23, 2019, at Colonial Funeral Home for George Harry Taylor Sr., 77, of Columbia, who went to be with the Lord on Sept. 21 at his residence surrounded by a group of loved ones. Burial followed in Woodlawn Cemetery. His grandson, Taylor Fortenberry, gave the eulogy before the encouraging message from Dr. Bryant Barnes. Visitation was held from 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 22 at Colonial Funeral Home.
A Columbia native, he was born on June 6, 1942, and graduated in 1960 from Columbia High School after serving his senior year as CHS Student Body President. He first worked with Penrod Oil Co. and then in the building materials department of Brinson and Fortenberry, a company owned by his uncles, Frank and James Fortenberry, along with family friend, Billy Brinson. He later purchased the building department and established Harry Taylor Discount Building Materials. Shortly after pursuing this vision, he started a home construction company and developed several subdivisions in Columbia.
He enjoyed a short political term of four years after being elected alderman-at-large of Columbia in 1973. He was also co-owner of River Production Company, an oil-drilling firm, and invested much of his returns in real estate holdings throughout Columbia and Marion County.
He can best be described as an overcomer and visionary. He truly had a heart for others as it is evident from the numerous accounts of family and friends who he helped during his time here on Earth. He will be remembered for his unending work-ethic, “can do it” attitude and his contagious sense of humor. Many will miss him, but all will remember the impact and impression he made on their lives.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruby Fortenberry Nocenti; wife, Barbara Buckley Taylor, and son, George Harry Taylor Jr.
He leaves behind a daughter, Harriet Taylor Fortenberry (Johnny); grandson, Taylor Fortenberry (fiancé, Olivia Ryals); sister, Betty Burt Wagley; nephew, Eric Champagne, and a host of other precious family members.
Pallbearers were Stacy Buckley, Eric Champagne, Doug Douglas, Garrett Douglas, Taylor Fortenberry, Danny Wilks and Porter Wilks.
Colonial Funeral Home was in charge of all arrangements.
