James I. “Cook” Taulbee 57, Kewanna, passed away at 5:11 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 1, 2019, at his residence.

He was born Aug. 23, 1961, in Knox, the son of James Willie and EmoJean (Cole) Taulbee.

Taulbee had worked as a well driller, press operator and retired from the State of Indiana Department of Transportation. He was a member of the Knox Community Outreach Tabernacle Church. He loved the Lord and loved his church family. He loved to sing joy to the Lord. He enjoyed living on Bruce Lake, fishing, tying flies, campfires and sunsets. He was a lifelong Chicago Cubs fan, loved to ride his motorcycle and loved all superheroes, with his favorite being Superman.

He was a gifted musician, self- taught guitar, playing lead and bass. Most of all he loved his children, grandchildren and being called “PawPaw,” giving special nicknames to everyone he loved.

Survivors include his wife Cheryl Pool, Kewanna; children: Joshua (Amber) Taulbee, Valdosta, Ga., James I. (Michelle) Taulbee II, O’Fallon, Miss., Jonathan (Angela) Taulbee, East Orange, N.J., Jacob Taulbee, Plymouth; step daughters: Megan Pool, Kewanna, Mary (Dan) Brayfogle, North Judson; grandchildren: Joshua, Athena, Gabriel and Isiah Taulbee, all of Valdosta, Ga.: step grandchildren, Levi and Nora Brayfogle, North Judson;, sisters: Pamela (Adam) Messer, Knox, Danielle (Chad) Haddix, Gardner, Kan.; brothers: Howard (Becky) Taulbee, Delphi, Kevin (Renee) Taulbee, Monticello; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

The Outreach Tabernacle Church will be doing a Celebration of Life Service for Jim “Cook” Taulbee at 11 a.m. Tuesday Aug. 6, 2019, at the Knox Community Center, with lunch being served after the service.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Outreach Tabernacle Church. Arrangements by Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester, Indiana.