Donald Lee Taylor, devoted father and grandfather, passed away quietly in his home on September 30, 2023. His warmth and gentle nature will be remembered by many. Born July 2, 1953 in Winston Salem to Geraldine Long Taylor and Ray Taylor, he is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, Jaime Taylor and Craig Lavern Taylor and by his sisters, Cressor Styles, and Celeste D. Long.

A lifelong resident of Winston Salem, Donald graduated from West Forsyth High School in 1973 where he played varsity basketball before attending Appalachian State University. He played basketball for the Mountaineers and graduated in 1978 with a degree in Physical Education.

Upon graduation, Don first worked in Winston for Moors Lumber Yard, and later for Hechinger Home Improvement where he became the first black man promoted to store manager. In 2021, he retired from years serving as an ombudsman for DePaul Senior Care.

He is survived by his former wife Brenda Taylor and his sons Rahman Gardner of Winston and Jamar Taylor and wife Kate, and daughters Mia and Anna of Concord, NC, as well as his brother Anthony "Ray" Taylor and wife Sarah Taylor and sisters Denise Taylor and Vanessa L. Martin.

A memorial will be held for family and friends at 3:00 Saturday, October 7, 2023 at Douthit Funeral Services, 515 Specialty Park Drive, Winston Salem, NC

In lieu of flowers, a contribution could be made in his name to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.