[1]KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (BP) – Allan Taylor, well-known author and associate pastor of First Baptist Church Concord in Knoxville, died Tuesday (July 28) following a stroke.
Taylor, 71, is best known among Southern Baptists for his writing and teaching on the importance of a strong Sunday School and best practices for churches trying to build one. He wrote or cowrote several books on that theme, including 2003’s “The Six Core Values of Sunday School.”
Taylor’s 2009 book “Sunday School in HD” was published by Lifeway Christian Resources. Taylor joined the staff of Lifeway in 2015, where he served as director of church education ministry until 2019.
“Allan Taylor gave his life to the conviction that the local church’s Sunday School is not a relic of the past – it is one of God’s most strategic tools for reaching people and growing disciples,” said Ken Braddy, current director of Sunday School for Lifeway and one of Taylor’s coauthors. “Over more than four decades of faithful ministry, Allan’s books and video series about group ministry equipped thousands of teachers and leaders to serve with greater faithfulness and effectiveness.
Braddy said Taylor believe didn’t believe in Sunday School simply for the sake of church programming.
“Allan didn’t just believe in Sunday School; he believed in the people who showed up every week to teach it, lead it, and live it – and he spent his life helping them become better Sunday School leaders and teachers. Heaven is richer and the church is more equipped, because of Allan.”
Former Lifeway President Thom Rainer called Taylor “most passionate voices about the work of the local church.”
Rainer says he was also struck by Taylor’s love for his family.
“I am grateful that his legacy will continue for many years to come through his churches, the organizations he served, and, above all, through his family,” Rainer said.
Taylor is survived by his wife of 48 years, Linda, his daughters, Kelly (Ben) Webb and Angie (Robb) Seahorn, his son Jacob (Suleidy) Taylor and five grandchildren.
Taylor served for 20 years at FBC Woodstock, Ga., before moving to Lifeway.
“His passion for biblical discipleship and Sunday School ministry left an immeasurable impact—not only here at First Baptist Woodstock but in churches across the nation,” the church said in a statement on Facebook.
Church leaders said he was a blessing to the congregation.
“His wisdom, humility, and servant’s heart helped shape our discipleship culture and encouraged so many of us to lead with excellence, intentionality, and a deep love for people,” the statement said. “He challenged us to never lose sight of the mission of helping people grow in Christ and reach others with the gospel.”
Since 2019, Taylor served on staff at First Concord, first as executive pastor of ministries and then as associate pastor.
“Allan’s heart was not bound by one set of walls,” the church said in a statement. “For decades, he devoted his life to strengthening churches across the country and nations, coming alongside pastors and congregations to help them grow biblically.
The church said the family has asked that people consider donating to the Alllan Taylor Memorial Scholarship Fund [2].
“This fund will assist men and women pursuing vocational ministry, continuing the legacy of faithful service that marked Allan’s life,” the statement said.
“He served with a shepherd’s heart wherever he went – pointing people to Christ and inspiring people to follow Jesus. The impact of his faithfulness reaches into communities and churches, and it will be felt for generations.”
The funeral for Taylor will be Saturday, Aug. 8, at 11:00 am at FBC Concord. Rose Funeral Home [3] is in charge of arrangements.
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