Leslie H. “Buddy” Taylor, 96, of Cunningham, Texas, went to his final eternal resting place on March 2, 2026. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Bright-Holland Funeral Home and services have been set for 2 PM Friday, March 6, 2026, at Life Tabernacle Church with Frankie Norwood officiating. The family will receive friends and family one hour prior to the service with a private interment to be held at Restland Cemetery in Cunningham Texas.
He was born on July 18, 1929, in Cunningham, Texas, the son of Ira Taylor and Mary Squires Taylor.
A man of deep Christian faith, Buddy lived out his beliefs daily throughout kindness, integrity and unwavering devotion to God and family. He was an active member of Cunningham Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon. This is also where he found joy in worship and fellowship. He was known for his steady guidance and wisdom.
After proudly serving in the United States Air Force and playing basketball for four years, he enjoyed getting back to farming and working on his family’s land. Buddy made an impact on education while in administration with the Cunningham ISD and as Superintendent of the Prairliand ISD in Pattonville, Texas, where he retired in 1986. His leadership and vision helped shape the future of countless students and families as well as his commitment to learning remains part of his enduring legacy.
Above all he treasured his family. Buddy is preceded in death by his parents and two sisters as well his wife Margie (Bootie) Taylor whom he married May 29, 1948, and daughter-in-law Paula Sue Taylor. He is survived by his wife Barbara Hill Taylor, one son Leslie Fern Taylor, grandkids Justin and wife Jennifer Taylor and Jenifer Taylor and husband Daryl Duncan. He was a devoted great-grandfather to his great-grandchildren, Grady and Bailee Taylor, and two stepchildren Ken Hill of Weatherford, Texas and Kay and Jack Chennault of Paris, Texas.
Pallbearers will be: Jerrod Bankhead, Ricky Norwood, Billy Ray Oats, Kenneth Palmer, Michael Sessums, and Grady Taylor. Honorary pallbearers will be: Charlie Baker, Max Ballard, Jack Chennault, Murray Jackson, Steve Ladd, Waylon Norrell, Johnny Patterson, Paul Payne, and Johnny Smith.
If desired, a memorial donation may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105-9959.
The family would like to extend appreciation to Heritage House of Paris, On Call Hospice, and Mr. Taylor’s caregiver, Deborah Cole, for the love and care given to him.
To leave a message or tribute for the family please visit www.brighthollandfuneralhome.com
