Don Tayes, age 79, of Cookeville, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday, August 24, 2025, at his home.

Mr. Tayes was born on Friday, April 19, 1946, in Monterey, Tennessee, to the late L D Conley and Pauline Tayes Scott.

Mr. Tayes owned and operated a trucking company. He was a United States Vietnam War Veteran serving 2 tours of duty and one tour of duty in Korea. He was a member of Asbestos Union Workers and was a Mason.

He is survived by his wife of almost 53 years, Beckie Buckner Tayes

son, Donnie (Susan) Tayes of Baxter, TN

grandchildren, Danielle (Ray) Maurer, Holly Tayes, DJ Tayes, and Sasha Knowles

great grandchild, Lance Maurer

sisters, Fonda (Eric) Eaton of Cookeville, TN
Peggy (Danny) Stephens of St. Augustine, FL

brothers, Jim Conley of Ohio
Barry Conley of Palatka, FL

daughter-in-law, Cindy Tayes of Smithville, TN
sisters-in-law, Gail Bolton and Gwen Scott

special friends, Curt Austin of Florida
Jim Nicholson of Mineola, TX
Johnny Tayes of Monterey, TN

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Shannon Tayes; daughter, Paulette Knowles; grandson, Billy Knowles; brothers, Monte Scott, Jackie Bolton, and Mark Scott.

His wishes of cremation are being honored with no services planned.

Arrangements and Care provided by D.M. Goff Funeral Home, Inc., 205 East Cleveland Avenue, Monterey, Tennessee 38574, Phone, 931.839.2311.