Steve Robert Taylor
February 22, 1949 ~ April 24, 2006
Resided in:
Asheville, NC
Asheville ~ Steve Robert Taylor, 57, singer, songwriter and "bi-gollygist-at-large" died on Monday April 24, 2006 at Memorial Mission Hospital's cardiac intensive care unit.
Steve was a native of Buncombe County and was also known as the Buncombe Balladeer for his love of the local music that enriched his life so much. He died just one week prior to an annual celebration that he had hosted for twenty-five years. The celebration was his way of being a self-appointed ambassador to the mountains that he loved. Guests came from as far away as Montana, California, Israel and Scotland every year to be led on a hike up in the high elevations to hunt for the elusive ramp. As he walked he pointed out wildflowers and animal tracks to his guests.
Steve was also an avid outdoorsman and loved both hunting and fishing in these mountains more than anything. He often remarked that "a bad day outside is better than a good day inside." He was full of stories, some true and some enhanced, but always beautifully told. He found his singing voice and infectious laugh by staying outside most of his childhood. He grew up on a farm and was trying his hand at organic farming on family land.
Steve was the President of the Avery's Creek Trailriders Club Wagon Train. He dearly loved leading the 50+ wagons over Bent Creek Gap and into Mills River in the fall of the year. The weekend event was concluded by a church service Sunday morning when Steve sang hymns from the Old Broadman Hymnal.
A private family service will be held at St. Francis Chapel at Kanuga Conference Center in Hendersonville. The family will receive friends at Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian on Long Shoals Road, Thursday April 27th from 7:00 – 8:30 P.M.
A celebration of Steve's life and music will be held at the farm in Arden on Saturday at 3:00 PM for all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife Isabel Watkins Taylor, daughter Catherine Michaux Taylor and son James Butler Taylor; mother, Eva Louise Butler Taylor; brothers, Ernest Eugene Taylor and Arnold Alex Taylor; sisters, Catherine Taylor Pressley and Judy Taylor
Gasperson.
He was preceded in death by his father James Robert Taylor; maternal grandparents, Charlie and Sadie Butler and paternal grandparents, Alex and Lydia Taylor.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to WNCW radio station, PO Box 804, Spindale, NC 28160, 828-287-8000 www.wncw.org for the Gospel Truth radio show, which Steve loved, or to Wildlife in North Carolina Magazine, 1710 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699. 866-945-3746, ncwildlife.org.
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We just found out late this afternoon and will not be able to attend visitation tonight, because of the auto auction, but wanted you to know how much we enjoyed Steve throughout the years he worked here, and how much Jerry, Dana & Adam had enjoyed seeing him at Fletcher Feed recently. He was a wonderful person and we will all miss him.
So sorry to hear. Ivy and I are both thinking of you all. Margie
On Loan…. an Aztec prayer
Only for a short time have you loaned us to each other,
Because you take form in your act of drawing us,
and we take life in your painting us,
and we breathe in your singing us.
But only for a short time have you loaned us to each other.
Because even a drawing cut in crystalline obsidian fades,
and even the green feathers of the Quetzal bird lose their color,
and even the sounds of the waterfall die out in the dry season.
So, we too, because only for a short time have you loaned us to each other.
Steve, every person I meet knows at least a little bit of you… the part in me that rubbed off. If the dead only fear being forgotten, you have nothing to fear as long as I draw breath. Kind man, you leave a very large void in the world and I will miss you every time I see a squirrel run, a creek flow, or touch my guitar to sing one of your songs.
Our deepest sympathies & healing prayers of love go out to the familiy. This is a poem that has touched us deeply, may it comfort you now as well.
When I die if you need to weep
Cry for your brother or sister
Walking the street beside you
And when you need me put your arms around anyone
And give them what you need to give me.
I want to leave you something
Something better than words or sounds.
Look for me in the people I’ve known or loved
And if you cannot give me away
At least let me live in your eyes and not on your mind.
You can love me most by letting hands touch hands
By letting bodies touch bodies
And by letting go of children that need to be free.
Love doesn’t die, people do
So when all that’s left of me is love
Give me away.
~Merritt Malloy
Isabel, Catherine and Butler
I am so sorry to here about Steve. As young boy I relished the times when Steve would come to my Dads shop to get his car fixed or skin a deer or tell a tale. I could listen to his stories of hunting, fishing, and life’s joys until the sun come up the next day. When Steve pulled up in the driveway I ran out of the house just to be around this fine fine man. My eyes can not hold back the tears as look back on the wonderful childhood memories with this great man. I hope that every boy has the opportunity to be around a man like Steve as he grows up. He will be missed by so many and if Heaven could be a better place it would be now.
The community has lost a treasure and a good friend to all. Mike and Cathy
Isabel Catherine and Butler My prayer is going with your family I miss Steve for his laugh Love Aunt Ruby
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Steve will be missed.
Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
God be with the family and friends of my olddd friend.’Tiny Taylor’ was a song I made up at one of Steves playoffs in the early 70’s. What a singer and what a whistler! I am sorry that I did not see more of him in the last several years. Peace, Love,and Memories.
To the Taylor family:
Since I don’t have all of your addresses, please allow me to use this form of communication to express my deepest sympathy in the passing of your loved one.
I shall always remember Steve with fondness. Steve was an extra special person. God needed someone to sing a ballad or two in heaven; so he chose Steve.
Steve probably lived more in fifty-seven years than most people who live to be a hundred.
Steve lit up a lot of people’s lives by the way he lived his.
God bless all of you and please know that all of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Blessings,
Tommy Koontz
I liked Steve from the minute I met him. My husband and I are fortunate that we were able to spend alot of time with him in last couple of months. He always had a twinkle in his eye, a warm smile, and a wonderful laugh. I am sorry that I won’t be able to see him again. He will be truly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire Taylor family.
I sure would like to be a the farm Saturday but I have to go make some music with my brothers. I’m sure Steve would understand that. Love.
Isabelle,
The times with Steve are too memorable to count. I am so saddened by your lose. I remember to well the stories that could make anyone smile and laugh. He could make a drink that would anyone happy. He made my life better just for knowing him.
If possible, tell me how to get one of his tapes from the last few years that I can share with all my family and friends to carry on the tradition that was Steve.
Much Love,
Keith Stewart
Arnold, Ernie, Judy, Cathy, I am so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. I can’t imagine the pain you are enduring, but remember Christ will be your comfort, turn to Him, and know Steve is singing with Him tonight. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.
What can I say, we’ve lost an original. Many fond memories floating in my head. I’m certain he’s entertaining the crew upstairs tonight……….many of whom he hasn’t seen in a while, but had shared a campfire, a song, and a laugh with long ago. Isabelle, our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Take care……..rt
Isabel, Butler and Catherine,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss.
We will be keeping you all in our thoughts and prayers.
Love,
Jack, Mary and Kate
Steve and Kim
Ms. Taylor-
I hope you remember me, I helped take care of in the nursing home in Fletcher. I am MB & Anna Meek’s Grandaughter (June’s daughter)- I wanted to send my deepest condolences to you and your family and let you know that my prayers and thoughts are with you. I have very special memories of when I was little being at the house playing with ‘little Ernie’ as my mom did playing with Steve. I have heard many stories over the years, and I have to say they are ones I will never forget- I hope to see you again soon(in better circumstances I might add) Please take care- No more falls, ok? With all my love-
Sincerely
Kimberly Howell Jones
Though it’s been some time since we’ve been together, we are so saddened by Steve’s death. What a remarkable person he was and what a loss to this community. Isabel, know that you will be much in our hearts and prayers, as will the kids.
Love, Juliana and Larry
ISABEL, SUZANNE AND I HAVEN’T SEEN YOU GUYS IN A WHILE, BUT WE STILL LOVE YOU. WE ARE VERY SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. PRAYERS HAVE BEEN SAID. IF YOU NEED ANYTHING ,WE WILL BE THERE FOR YOU. OUR DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. MIKE & SUZANNE
Dear Isabel, Catherine, and Butler,
Our thoughts are with you.
Much love, Ken, Jen, Jonah, Samuel, and Stevie
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Each of you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Dear Isabelle, Catherine, & Butler,
We are so sorry to hear of Steve’s passing. We are saddened and shocked, yet very blessed that we had been touched by his sunny, delightful, entertaining, jovial and charismatic spirit. He lives forever within all of us through cherrished memories of our time with him. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Love,
Mike, Jill, Jeanna and Jerry
Isabel, Catherine & Butler,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. May you find comfort in the great memories you share and in the strength of family & friends. With loving thoughts,
Kim
Just wanted you to know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
To the entire Taylor family. Steve was one of my good high school friends. We certainly had our share of laughs and good times. Above all, Steve was genuine, always interested in others rather than himself and was willing to give of himself. Truly a fine man.
I will remember all of the Taylor family in my prayers.
Isabel, Catherine, and Butler,
Steve was a special person. I was lucky enough to attend his annual gatherings and enjoyed being there and listening to Steve talk, and sing. He loved life and people and was a joy to be around. I know you will miss him dearly, as will all of those who knew him.
I am so sorry to hear about Steve. I always enjoyed it everytime I ran into him and I know he will be missed terribly. Please know that your whole family is in my prayers.
Love, Linda
Dear Isabell, Butler, & Catherine,
My heart goes out to you. I know this must be a shocking and highly emotional time for you all. I always enjoyed talking to Steve when I cut his hair a few years back. What a smart guy. I was most impressed with him as a father and how he loved to hug and kiss his kids, making Butler blush! Also with his total love and support of Isabell in everything she did. You were all very blessed to have him. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. He contributed so much to all the lives he touched. I know he will always be a part of each of you and all you do. Because of all of you, I know he lived a very happy life. He was always SO PROUD of his family. I loved that chuckle and warm smile of his! What a great guy! He will be remembered respectfully by all who knew him. My prayers are with you all.
With much love,
Diane Travis
691-6232
Dear Louise, Arnold, Earnest, Judy and Cathy,
I was so sad when Mom called and told me last week that Steve had a heart attack. It has been years and years since I saw Steve but the childhood memories that our families had together are priceless. I remember running and playing for hours at your house and farm….in and out, in and out of the house. Lots of laughter and fun times!
I know we went on picnics to Pisgah National Forest and other places as a kid.
All my memories of you all are sweetness, kindness and a wonderful part of my life’s tapestry of family and friends!
I praise the Lord for His redeeming work in the souls of fallen man so that one day every tear will be gone and we can meet again redeemed and whole.
From reading Steve’s memorials, I know I will see him again one day and hear the songs and stories firsthand myself.
I love you all….Sandra (and Larry) McLendon
Dear Ones,
I have so many fond memories of being with Steve, esp. back in the 70’s and 80’s, while still residing in Asheville. His laugh was indeed infectious, as were his wonderful tales. My personal favorite was the one of him on a motorcycle with a bee getting inside his shirt.
He is such a lovely soul (still is, of course), and his physical presence on this earth will be surly missed by the hundreds of us who knew and loved him. We are still with you Steve. I know you’re having a blast, wherever your spirit is now taking you.
much love, forever,
Jeffrey Shoaf
Bloomington, Illinois
Dear Butler Clan, I was saddened by the news of Steve’s passing. Going home with the Taylor family on Sunday’s after church are some of my fondest memories. I remember Steve kidding Judy & me for listening and dancing to Paul Revere & the Raiders 45 records in the playhouse. Steve was also very kind and sweet to my own daughter, Briana, when she stayed with Isabel after school. Everyone that knew Steve will miss his infectious smile and gift for music. Guess he’s playing guitar and singing with my Dad now.
Love and prayers,
Please don’t hesitate to call any of the Trammel bunch if you need any thing at all. We are all here for you. Much love to Isabel, Catherine and Butler
I’m very sorry to hear about the passing of your father. My father passed away in November, and there are no words that can offer you solace. If you want to talk, about anything, give me a ring and we’ll catch up on old times and laugh and probably cry.
Les 582-9511cell, 225-2878 home
Butler, Rex just told me about your dad, I’m so sorry. Please know that you and your family are in my prayer.
Nancy
Isabell–when I saw this in today’s paper, I couldn’t help but believe it was THE Steve Taylor, although I didn’t know for sure. When I read the other posts, I now know it is. I am so sorry to hear that. It is a blessing to have your children to help you through this. May you have strength during the days to come.
Sincerely,
Brenda Spence
I would like to offer my sincere condolences to Isabel, Arnold, and the entire Taylor family. I have known Steve for a long time and always enjoyed discussing and sharing his Hunting experiences. He was a great outdoorsman. He will be greatly missed. I am praying for the entire family as you cope with this tremendous loss. May God richly bless you all in this time of sorrow.
My lifelong friend is gone. Isabel, Katherine & Butler, your husband and Dad was one of the most wonderful people I have ever known. I share your sorrow in a way that all who knew and loved Steve share this loss. I will always hold the memory of his smile and laugh close to my heart. My love and prayers go out to you all now and forever.
Margie
My thoughts and prayers are for the entire family as you go through this time of grief. As you remember all the blessings, stories, songs, hugs, kisses and time spent with your husband, father, sibling, and child; it will bring smiles to your faces and help to heal your broken heart. He is above looking down and smiling, smiling, smiling in between singing, exploring, and long-winded conversations with all the angels.
Sincere sympathy is extended to the family for their loss. They are in our thoughts and prayers.
Isabel, Katherine & Butler.
You are in our prayers.
The Corens
Lloyd, Cheryl,
Courtney & Colby
Steve will be missed by so many, those of whom he touched in many ways.
In case you wonder who this is I am Debbie Swayngim’s Mother. We enjoyed some great times at Lake James.
He is closer to what and where he began………..
He sleeps best ‘on a woods mice nest’
He is real and I get chills just thinking of his songs.
Isabel,
Just to let you know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Today I thought about all the wonderful times spent at your house in my much younger years and all the laughter and good times that Steve brought to my Dad and Mom. Plese know that we are here for you and please do not hesitate to call.
Sincere sympathy to Steve’s family. We enjoyed some fun times growing up.
Isabel, Catherine and
‘ But- a- ler ‘
This morning when I woke the boys for school . I almost sang … Rain makes the corn grow, corn makes the liquor grow …. Oh Lawd let it raiiiiin …….. Oh the stories !!!!
I hold you close in my thoughts with a tear in my heart …
Keep the stories alive !!!
I am a better person because of the time we shared!
Just think … Steve is
‘Puuu Puuu Puu rified!!! ‘
So much love for the three of you !!!
~Mary Jane
Your time with us was much too short and we will miss you terribly. The memories of your wonderful laugh, your stories and your music will forever live in our hearts and the hearts of all of those fortunate enough to have known you.
Isabelle, Catherine, & Butler I have lost a great friend. I have known Steve since the late 60’s and the fine memories of him are treasures now for us all. Today I have remembered several times he and I were together and I am indeed profoundly sorry for the loss of this fine gentle-man.
Isabel, Catherine, Butler and family,
Steve touched so many lives in so many ways. His love of his family and friends was ever present. His twinkling eyes, hearty laugh, and strong handshake will remain in our memory always.
We are deeply saddened by Steve’s passing from our earth, but may you all gain comfort in knowing that he now sings and plays with a herald of God’s angels. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Dear Isabelle, Butler & Kathryn,
Words can’t be written to express our feelings for your loss. We are so blessed to have known Steve (and all of you) and just know our hearts and prayers are with you.
God is looking after you, and Steve’s there with Him, making doggone sure that He does. I can hear him now, the mouth harp to strike the key and then here comes the song. (and don’t forget the Turkey call).
All our love to all of you.
Lewis, Jan, Matt & Lauren
Isabel and family, You have my heartfelt condolence. Steve will be missed by many. Although I have been out of state for many years and out of touch with Steve, I will hold on to my memories of our times in high school.
God Bless you.
Steve will be greatly missed by everyone who ever met him.
Dear Isabelle, Catherine, & Butler,
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of you for the loss of Steve. Steve was a special person, so full of life and joy. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. I’ll miss him too.
Isabel, Catherine and Butler,
May God be with you all. Steve will always be in our fondest memories, from wagon trains to family get togethers. He was such a special and wonderful man.
Love and prayers to you,
Greg, Nicki, Kim, Lauren and Taylor
Singer, songwriter, musician, hunter, fisherman, butcher, realtor, television personality, Santa Claus, storyteller, bartender, farmer, friend, husband, and FATHER…I am sure that I have left alot out. But those are the hats I remember Steve Taylor wearing.
Missing him already.
Dear Louise, Cathy, Judy, Arnold and Ernest,
With deepest sympathy, love and
prayers for each of you,
Mary Talley
Arnold,
You and your family are in our thoughts and prayers. Although I hadn’t seen Steve since I was a little girl, I will always remember his smiling face.
With deepest sympathies,
Eric, Amy, and Brayden Silvers
I forgot to mention.
The best whistler ever – bar none.
God Bless Steve Taylor. He had all of the afor mentioned attributes. Peace was his passion and the outdoors was his Heaven on Earth.Compassion has become a rare comodity. He had compassion to spare.
Dear Taylor family,
I met Steve many, many years ago but the memories never faded. The memories are of a warm and gentle man of many talents who could, and did, laugh at the least provocation. I’ll never forget Steve and I’ll always hear his laugh. I am truly sorry for your loss.
Steve’s passing has taken a larger-than-life man from our community.
His basso profundo voice still echoes in my memory, as well as the time he taught me to build a campfire from the tiniest slivers of mountain laurel instead of crumpled paper.
He is missed.
Isabell and all of the Taylor Family, we are so saddened by the passing of Steve. He meant so much to so many people. He was such a precious person and will be sorely missed by all.
We extend our love and sympathy.
James & Helen Souther
Hi to all. So sorry to hear about Steve. He was one heck of a guy and a beautiful voice.My love and prayers goes to you all.
Love June
My prayers are with you all.I can still see our kids playing and running and acting like kids. Those memories I hold dear to my heart. Steve is now with his Dad and my Milton,they are in good hands.God Bless You all. Love Anna Meek
From the time I was a little girl I can remember the sweet belly laughter of one of the most amazing people I have ever encountered in my life. To hear him sing was just as sweet. When you needed someone to listen or just be there he was. My life has been blessed because of the people in it that have influenced my character. Although over the years I have lost touch with so many, I have never forgotten where I grew up and the beautiful people that helped raise me. Isabel~ I am so sorry. I love you and the kids so dearly. I wish I had been around more to see them grow and to spend more wonderful times with you and Steve. Ramp festivals, possum stew (ummm my favorite!), New Years Eve with rootbeer floats, going camping (the real kind) and fly fishing and many more of the wonderful times I got to experience with you all. I wish my kids could have met him, but I will always make sure they hear his name. I love you! God Bless!
Dear Isabell and family,
Please know that Wendy, Jennifer, Julie and I are keeping you and the family in our thoughts and prayers during this time. We extend our deepest sympathy. Please let us know if we may provide any assistance to you in any way.
Gregg Solms
Isabel and Family…
Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May God Bless and hold you close in the days and weeks ahead…
Melody Burleson
Happy Birthday! I remember all the wonderful stories – and cherish your friendship so much!
Catherine and Isabel and family
Know that you are in our thought and my prayer during this time. May you stay close to God in this time.
A beautiful life. He will be very missed by those who loved him, but what wonderful memories he has given. Love, Robert and Johanna
Butler, Catherine, and Isabel,
I was very sorry to hear of your loss. If there is anything I can do for you, please do not hesitate to ask. The whole HCAT community will be thinking of you and mourning with you.
Best,
John
…there’s one more angel in heaven, one more star in the sky …’ Ramona
Besides his multitude of talents, he was a true gentleman and one of the most compassionate, sensitive, caring person I’ve had the pleasure to know. He was a man who was never too embarrassed to shed a tear over a sentimental memory, a sad song, or a good cause. The world has lost a great voice and an an honorable citizen. Fly home dear Steve and rest in peace and love.
Isabelle, Catherine and Butler:
I was both shocked and saddened by the news of Steve’s passing. My heart and deepest sympathy go out to you all.
Ken
Isabel, Catherine, Butler, family, and friends…
I can never find the right words at times like this. It really hurts, deep, when we loose our nearest loved ones. I share that hurt. I wish I could hear Steve laugh again. I believe we will. God has a way of fixing that hurt. Have faith.
I would like to share my fondest memory. On any outing that involved a campfire, I could hardly wait to hear Steve sing, Gunga Din. Steve had many unique and great characteristics, to that I say, ‘You’re a better man than I am, Gunga Din!’
You all are in my prayers.
Dear Steve,
Sitting here listening to James Taylor – ‘Fire and Rain’ – and thought of you! I thought I would see you again also.
Hope your are enjoying those streets of gold – I thought I heard your voice in that heavenly chior!
Miss you lots –
Happy Birthday – Hard to believe another year has passed.