Taylor Knowles, III

Born on September 7, 1942, in Gadsden, Alabama, to the union of Taylor Knowles, Jr. and Esther Mae Stone Knowles, Taylor Knowles, III was the son of proud parents who instilled in him a strong sense of faith and community. From a young age, Taylor's spiritual journey led him to Athens CME Church, where he found solace and embraced the teachings of Christ. Later, he became a devoted member of Oak Grove Baptist Church in Gadsden, where throughout the years he faithfully served as a senior deacon and choir director sharing his devotion and compassion with others. With a thirst for knowledge, Taylor pursued his early education at James L. Cain Elementary School and later graduating in 1960 from Carver High School. He continued his journey by earning his Associate's Degree. He valued education and recognized its power to shape lives and uplift communities. Immediately following high school, Taylor decided to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. Once completing his duty there, he served in the Reserves as an A Unit National Guard 1st Sergeant and later became a member of the California Army National Guard until retiring to continue enjoying the fruits of his labor. In addition to his professional achievements, Taylor embraced his cultural heritage and was actively involved in preserving African-American history and culture. As the property manager and financial manager at the Central Carver Legacy Museum, he was instrumental in preserving the legacy of old Carver High School and ensuring that future generations could learn from our shared history. Taylor's commitment to service extended beyond his professional and community endeavors. He was a devoted Freemason who reached the esteemed level of 33rd Degree and held various leadership positions within the Masonic community. As the Most Worthy Grand Master of Masons (Modern Free California) and Grand Potentate of Al Kodash Shriner (Modern Free AF & AM of the World), he exemplified the values of brotherhood, compassion, and unity. While on this 81-year earthly journey, Taylor united in holy matrimony to Lois Waddles and to this union two children born Michelle and Patrece. Later in life he married Dianne Melton Weatherly on September 8, 2003. Taylor was a loving and devoted father to his children, both of whom brought immeasurable joy and pride to his life. Additionally, he welcomed his bonus son, Tony, into his heart as his own. Taylor was a pillar of love and support to his family and community, always there to offer guidance and encouragement. Family was of utmost importance to Taylor, and he took great delight in being a doting grandfather to his grandchildren, Mya and Trenton Hickman, and Corian Santiago. He reveled in their achievements and nurtured their dreams, leaving an indelible mark on their lives. Taylor Knowles III, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, nephew, and esteemed member of the community peacefully answered his Master's summons to come from labor to reward on November 3, 2023, at the age of 81, while surrounded by his loved ones at Riverview Regional Medical Center in Gadsden, Alabama. He was reunited with his parents, Taylor Knowles, Jr. and Esther Knowles, and sister, Teresa. Taylor's warm and compassionate nature extended beyond his immediate family and his legacy of love and precious memories will continue to live on in the hearts of his loving and devoted wife, Dianne Knowles; two beloved daughters, Michelle (Danny) Clifford of Portland, Maine and Patrece (Terrell) Hickman of Rancho Cucamonga, California; bonus son, Tony Weatherly of Gadsden, Alabama; two grandchildren, Mya Hickman and Trenton Hickman of Rancho Cucamonga, California; bonus grandson, Corian Santiago of Gadsden, Alabama; two brothers, Willie (LeeAnne) Knowles of Huntington Beach, California, and Michael (Francine) Knowles of Chicago, Illinois; two sisters, Johnnie (Buford) Pope of Rialto, California and Shirley Knowles of Atlanta, Georgia; aunt, Dorothy Price of Chicago, Illinois ; uncle, Leon Knowles of Gadsden, Alabama; special children, Jamella, Shenette, Tina, Cam, Malik, Amaria, Aloni, and J.J.; two brothers-in-law, Bernard (Val) Melton and Marlon Melton (Teresa) both of Gadsden, Alabama; two sisters-in-law, Celetha (William) Cunningham of Gadsden, Alabama and Marcia (John) Edmondson of Stockbridge, Georgia; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and friends who will miss him dearly. Taylor touched the lives of countless individuals through his exemplary career as a dedicated City Supervisor in the public works industry while residing in Ontario, California. His commitment to improving his community and ensuring a better future for all will forever be remembered. Taylor's tireless efforts in civic service and his boundless passion for public works made a lasting impact on the lives of those he served. Taylor Knowles III will forever be remembered for his kind heart, unwavering devotion to his loved ones, and passion for making a difference. His legacy of love, resilience, and compassion will continue to inspire us all. Though we grieve his loss, we find solace in knowing that his spirit will live on in the hearts of those he touched. May his soul find everlasting peace, and may we find strength in the memories we shared with Taylor, a man whose heart overflowed with compassion and love.

Tributes

Taylor Knowles, III

September 7, 1942 - November 3, 2023