Joseph Clinton Taliaferro

Joseph Clinton Taliaferro, a beloved husband, father, veteran, educator, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 21, 2025, at Augusta Health. Born on April 15, 1939, in Churchville, Virginia. He was a son of the late Harry William, Sr. and Marie (Ashby) Taliaferro. He was a man of great integrity, kindness, and devotion, leaving behind a legacy of love and leadership that will be cherished forever.   
Affectionately known as "Pop" by his family and Joe to his friends, Joe was known for his incredible sense of humor, his infectious smile, his scrumptious lemon pies which fetched quite the price at many a church auction and his beautiful garden where he grew his legendary tomatoes that he gave away to the entire community.  Joe loved to play Rook and Bridge with his friends and found joy in golf, bow and rifle hunting, camping, gardening, and baking. He had a deep appreciation for nature and spent much of his free time embracing its beauty. His dogs were his faithful companions, bringing him happiness and companionship throughout the years. Those who knew him will always remember his amazing sense of humor and that he was always quick with a joke whenever you saw him. 
Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army, demonstrating the same dedication and perseverance that he carried into every aspect of his life. After his military service, he devoted himself to education, impacting countless lives as a teacher, athletic director and then the principal of Buffalo Gap High School. His guidance, wisdom, and unwavering support shaped the futures of many students and colleagues. 
Above all, Joe was a devoted husband who deeply loved his wife, and a dedicated father who raised two wonderful children. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Maryann; two sons, Tom and wife Angela, and Matthew and wife Michelle; sister, Patricia Elkins and brother, James Taliaferro and wife Linda; sister-in-law Wanda Taliaferro, as well as his grandchildren Zachary, Benjamin, Nicholas, Maggie, Cameron and Spencer; great-grandchildren Everett and Daniel; extended family, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. His family was his pride and joy, and he took immense gratification in their accomplishments and happiness. He was preceded in death by his brother, Harry William Taliaferro, Jr. and cousin and dear friend, Thomas Ashby. 
Joe's presence will be dearly missed, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. His love, humor, strength, and unwavering kindness will continue to inspire all who knew him. 
A celebration of Joe’s life will be announced at a later date. 
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in his name to a local veterans' organization or to the Alzheimer's Association, Greater Richmond (www.ALZ.org), 4600 Cox Road, Suite 130, Glen Allen, Virginia 23060.
Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton is in charge of his arrangements.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.coffmanfuneralhome.net