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Big John Taylor wasn’t just a name in the Stoney Creek community—he was a legend. Known affectionately as “Mr. Rangers for Life,” Taylor’s connection to Unaka High School began in the mid-1960s when he first set foot on the basketball court, and it never truly ended. Over the years, he transformed from a star player into a janitor, bus driver, assistant coach, and trusted advisor to every coach, principal, teacher, and student who walked through Unaka’s doors.

It is often said that true wealth is measured by the number of friends one has. If that’s true, then Big John Taylor was a very rich man indeed. His love for the Stoney Creek community and its people was unwavering, and his passion for Unaka sports was unmatched. Whether it was basketball, football, or any other sport, Big John was there, cheering for his beloved Rangers.

A Star on the Court
As a basketball player, Big John Taylor was unstoppable. Though officially listed as a guard, he played with the physicality and presence of a forward, dominating the paint and sinking midrange jumpers with precision. His 15-foot jumper was the stuff of legend—the best many had ever seen. Coaches across the Watauga Conference recognized his value, naming him to the All-Watauga team in an era when only five players made the cut. They called him the “main cog in the Ranger offense,” a testament to his skill and leadership.

Taylor shared the court with talented players like Keith Bowers, Javy Taylor, Larry Taylor, Johnny Bennett, and Larry Estep. He was rarely the leading scorer but was consistently in double figures. His rebounding and defense made him a terror for opposing teams. The lane belonged to Big John, whether he was crashing the boards or attacking the basket.

One of his most memorable performances came in a game against Hampton. With the score tied in overtime, Big John sank a clutch shot to secure a 63–62 victory for the Rangers, earning the title of “the hero of the night.” Moments like these cemented his place as a fan favorite and one of the top three players in Unaka basketball history.

A Lifelong Ranger
After his playing days ended, Big John’s dedication to Unaka High School only deepened. He returned to the school not just as a janitor but as a pillar of the community. He drove the bus, mentored students, and served as an assistant coach. He was a father figure to countless kids, always ready to listen and offer advice—even if it wasn’t what they wanted to hear.

Chris Wilson, a former player, once recalled a moment after a game when he had made 12 free throws but missed a couple. Big John, never one to mince words, asked him point-blank if he planned to start making free throws consistently. That was Big John—always pushing players to be better, never settling for less than their best.

Taylor’s impact extended far beyond the basketball court. He was an advisor, a friend, and a source of unwavering support for everyone at Unaka. He was a man who told you his truth, no matter what, and his truth always came from a place of love and a desire to see others succeed.

The Legend Lives On
Big John Taylor’s legacy is carved into the hearts of everyone who knew him. To true Rangers fans, he was more than a player, a coach, or a fan—he was the embodiment of what it means to be a Ranger. He loved Unaka High School, its students, and its community with a passion that will never be forgotten.

Whether you watched him play, knew him as a coach, or simply appreciated his candor and wisdom, Big John left an indelible mark on Stoney Creek. He taught generations of Rangers not just how to play the game but how to approach life with determination, honesty, and heart. In doing so, he became a legend who will live on forever in the journals of Unaka High School history.

Big John Taylor—Mr. Rangers for Life—will always be remembered.