Tributes

The family has requested that anyone that want to send any memories, messages or condolences to send them via email to: HonoringDennisTaft@gmail.com Dennis Lane Taft, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, nephew, and cousin, passed away peacefully on December 9, 2024, leaving a profound legacy of love, service, and faith. He was 68 years old. Dennis was born on September 12, 1956, in Pitt County to Leon Gilbert Sr. and Elizabeth Jane “Janie” Taft. He graduated from J. H. Rose High School in 1976, where he laid the foundation for a life committed to hard work, kindness, and service to others. Over the years, Dennis demonstrated unwavering dedication and care in a wide range of roles. He started with furniture delivery and upholstery at Thomas Willis Furniture and Interior Decorators, where he quickly earned a reputation for his reliability and attention to detail. He then transitioned to the medical field, serving as a Surgical Tech at Greenville Surgical Center, where his commitment to patient care was evident. Dennis went on to work as the head custodian at White Eye Associates for 15 years, consistently ensuring a clean and welcoming environment for patients and staff. His journey continued as an Operating Room Technician at Vidant Medical Center, where his skills and compassion continued to make a meaningful impact on lives. In addition to his healthcare roles, Dennis also ran his own landscaping and cleaning business, further showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic. However, Dennis’s most impactful calling came when he answered the call to ministry. In 1989, he was blessed to become the Pastor of the Church of God of Prophecy, a role in which he deeply connected with his congregation. He went on to serve as the founding pastor of the Church of God of Purpose, where he touched countless lives with his unwavering faith, dedication, and love. Dennis was more than a pastor—he was a servant leader who spent his life spreading the gospel and lifting up those around him. A man of deep faith and compassion, Dennis had a particular love for the youth of his community, often serving as a father figure to many. His gentle spirit and kind heart made everyone feel heard, loved, and valued. Whether praying with those in need, offering a listening ear, or sharing words of encouragement, Dennis’s life was a testament to the power of love and faith. Outside of his ministry, Dennis had a passion for the outdoors, especially fishing, traveling, and enjoying nature’s beauty. He found peace and joy in the simple pleasures of life and treasured the time spent with his loved ones. Dennis was preceded in death by his mother, Elizabeth Jane “Janie” Taft; his father, Leon Gilbert, Sr.; and his beloved siblings, sisters, Mary Roberson, Alice Tyson, Daisy Holland; brothers, James Earl Tyson, Isaac Tyson, Leon Gilbert Jr., Don Taft, Carlton Taft, Albert Atkinson, and Willie Gilbert. Dennis's memory will be eternally cherished by his devoted wife, Mary Taft; his beloved children, Demetrias Taft of Knightdale, NC, and Crystal Ellis (Brian) of Raleigh, NC; his beautiful granddaughter, Londyn Ellis; five sisters, Linda Gilbert, Beverly Felton, Janice Givens (Matthew), Linda Taft, all of Greenville, NC, and Bonnie Lane of Cheyenne, WY; two brothers, John Taft and Swindell Taft, both of Greenville, NC; a great aunt, Shirley Ebron of Greenville, NC; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends who were blessed to know him. Dennis was an exceptional man who lived a life of faith, service, and love. His legacy will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to be touched by his kindness and devotion. He now rests in the peace of the Lord, surrounded by love and grace. As written in Philippians 1:21-23, Dennis lived his life with unwavering faith: “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live on in the flesh, this will mean fruit from my labor; yet what I shall choose I cannot tell. For I am hard-pressed between the two, having a desire to depart and be with Christ, which is far better.”

Tributes

Pastor Dennis Lane Taft

September 12, 1956 - December 9, 2024