Edward Albert Taber, 86, of Franklin, passed away Friday, January 13, 2017.

Born in Rock Island, IL, he was the son of the late Dr. Albert W. Taber and Rose Mansfield Taber. Edward was a US Army veteran and worked for PanAmerican Airlines in cargo management. He was a master gardener, member of the Knights of Columbus, and member of St. Francis of Catholic Church; where he was Eucharist Minister and known for his love of sports and dedication to his family.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Marlene Murphy Taber; four children, Albert Kevin Taber, Deidre Leigh Taber both of Franklin, Sharon Anne Wainwright and husband Timothy of Newberry, FL and William E. Taber of Franklin; one sister, Patricia Arnould of Colorado; three grandchildren, Aiden, Trenton and Maddox Taber; two step-grandchildren, Cara and Garrett Wainwright; two nieces, Sara and Mary Arnould and nephew, Michael Arnould.

Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 a.m., Monday, January 16th at St. Francis Catholic Church. Father Tien Duong will officiate.

Honorary Pallbearers will be members of the Knights of Columbus.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to St. Francis Catholic Church, Gen. Fund, 299 Maple St., Franklin, NC 28734.

Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

Online condolences can be made at maconfuneralhome.com.

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