Taylor Dean Hardy

Taylor Dean Hardy, age 32, passed away Sunday, July 17, 2022, at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. He was surrounded by numerous family members and close friends.

Taylor was born May 2, 1990. He was a standout athlete in school. Taylor enjoyed playing sports as well as watching his favorite football team, the Green Bay Packers, and baseball team, the Atlanta Braves.  Taylor had recently found a new passion -- to breed, raise, and train K-9 working dogs.  While Taylor got satisfaction from interacting with the dogs, his favorite times lately were with his Granddaddy Wayne, brother Jamie, and friends on the fishing bank using the new secret bait recipe given to him by his pastor and friend.

Taylor began attending Franklin Heights Church several years ago as a member of the Bridging the Gap Program where he was introduced to a new way of life.  Taylor embraced a newfound lifestyle when he gave his life to Christ and accepted the free gift of salvation.  Taylor’s acceptance of Christ was evident to all who knew him as he boldly invited others to attend Recovery Church on Tuesday evenings and Sunday morning services at Franklin Heights Church. Taylor was quick to tell everyone he met how thankful he was for the Sheriff and staff at the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office for providing him the opportunity to come to know Christ.  The family would like to offer a special recognition and heartfelt thanks to the staff and members of Franklin Heights Church and everyone who was instrumental in supporting Taylor in his Christian journey.

Taylor was preceded in death by his father, Clint Ranell Hardy; brother, Reese Wigginton; sister, Bronwyn Smith; grandparents, Willie Everette and Virginia Ann Rae; and grandfather, John Nieberlein.

Taylor is survived by his mother, Venessa “Nessy” Rutrough; son, Eli Hardy;; brother, Brandon Rutrough; brother, Jamie Swartz II; sister, April Gaylean; grandmother, Laura Nieberlein; grandfather, Wayne Rutrough (Marcia) great-grandmother, Frances Rutrough, nieces, Scarlett and EllieMae Rutrough; nephew, Austin Rutrough; and special cousins, Matthew Moran and Tori Moran Smith.

A memorial service will be held at Franklin Heights Church, 5:00 p.m. Saturday, July 23, 2022, with Dr. Stan Parris officiating. Taylor’s family will receive friends from 3-5 p.m. prior to the service. Arrangements by Flora Funeral Service and Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.

Family receiving friends at 455 Chestnut Hill Road, home of Laura Nieberlein.