Rada Taylor Mathis

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Rada Taylor Mathis, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Born on March 20, 1949, in the serene town of Violet, NC, Rada touched the lives of many with her warmth, kindness, and unyielding strength. She passed away peacefully at her daughter’s home on August 6, 2026, following a courageous battle with cancer. Rada was the cherished daughter of Lon and Gladys Rose Taylor and is predeceased by her brothers Herman, David, and Ralph Taylor. Her legacy is carried on by her devoted children, Rhonda Mathis Kunkel and spouse Matthew of The Villages, FL, and Jody Mathis and spouse Jim Robison of Navarre, FL. She was the proud grandmother of four adoring grandchildren: Dylan (Asia Adomanis) Kunkel, Cory (Caitlyn) Kunkel, Jim Robison III, and Burns Robison, each of whom brought immense joy and pride to her life. Rada's life was enriched by her loving siblings, Pauline Patterson of Cumming, GA, Alene Garcia of LaGrange, GA, Edna Powell of Sebring, FL, Lottie Ensley of Epworth, GA, Nancy Davenport of Blue Ridge, GA, Winford Taylor of Turtletown, TN, Winston Taylor of Turtletown, TN, Patsy Weaver of Turtletown, TN, and Jim Taylor of Ducktown, TN. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews who will forever cherish her memory. Rada attended Copper Basin High School, and she pursued her passion for beauty and attended cosmetology school in Knoxville, TN. Several years later, Rada began a career with Walmart that would span over three decades, where she was known for her dedication, hard work, and the genuine care she extended to her colleagues and customers alike. Rada found immense joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished every moment spent with her children, grandchildren, and sisters, creating memories that will be treasured forever. Her home was a reflection of her love and pride, a sanctuary filled with warmth and beauty. A service to honor Rada's life will be held on August 28, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Akins-Cobb Funeral Home, located at 823 Ocoee Street, Copperhill, TN 37317. Family and friends are invited to gather and celebrate the life of a remarkable woman who gave so much to those around her. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society, to support the ongoing battle against cancer. The family would also like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Vitas Healthcare in Northwest FL for their compassionate care. Rada Taylor Mathis will be remembered for her unwavering strength, boundless love, and the indelible mark she left on all who were fortunate enough to know her. Her spirit will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, and she will be dearly missed.