Barry Dean Taylor

Barry Dean Taylor, age 55 of Benton, KY passed away peacefully on Monday, December 16, 2024, at his home in Benton, KY. Barry was born on Monday, May 19, 1969. He was the son of Robert Taylor and Brenda Daugherty Taylor.

He is survived by the love of his life, his wife Tammi York Taylor; son, Cody Taylor of Murray, KY; two bonus daughters, Amber Egner (Ben) of Reidland, KY and Gracie York (Wessel Van Huyssteen) of Benton, KY; mother-in-law Anna Rickman of Benton, KY; mother, Brenda Taylor of Paducah, KY; sister, Debbie Simpson (Craig) of Carterville, IL; nephew, Taylor Crider of Florida, and extended family members and friends, as well as his sweet dog, Scout.

Barry was preceded in death by his father, Robert Taylor of Benton, KY; paternal grandparents, Marvin and Doreen Taylor of Clinton, KY; and maternal grandparents, Robert and Virginia Daugherty.

Barry grew up in church at First Baptist Church, Benton, KY where he was a member. He attended Hardin Baptist Church later when he married Tammi.

He graduated from Marshall County High School in 1988. Barry worked at Collier Funeral Home for more than 21 years. He loved his work family: Mitchell, Ben “his little buddy”, Markea and Tosha. He also enjoyed working as an over the road truck driver. He previously served Marshall County as the Deputy Coroner for 12 years.

Barry had a big personality and an even bigger heart. He loved helping others, which is probably why he married a social worker. He loved animals and family often joked that Barry was the “animal whisperer.” He was an avid supporter of the Marshall County Exceptional Center. He always had a mischievous smile and wonderful sense of humor. Barry enjoyed Christmas and sang Christmas songs all year long. He loved the outdoors: riding four wheelers, camping, traveling with his family, going the beach, cutting wood, and most of all his big bonfires! Prior to his diagnosis Barry enjoyed going to and watching Nascar races, as well as riding horses.

Barry was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition related to dementia. He fought a good fight with a positive attitude to the end. While his loss is difficult for those left behind, he is free from the confines of a debilitating disease.

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday December 19, 2024, at 1 pm in the Chapel of Collier Funeral Home with Brother Ricky Cunningham officiating. Friends may pay their respects on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, between the hours of 5 pm and 8 pm at Collier Funeral Home in Benton. Burial will follow at the Union Hill Cemetery located on Peggy Ann Springs Road in Benton, KY.

Family request memorial contributions be made to Marshall County Humane Society, 6301 US-68, Benton Ky or Marshall County Exceptional School 198 Old Symsonia Rd, Benton, KY 42025