Billy Taylor

Billy Taylor

Billy Taylor Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Dec. 29, 2010.
NEW YORK (AP) - A jazz pianist and composer who became one of the music form's most ardent promoters through radio, television and the landmark Jazzmobile arts venture has died in Manhattan. Billy Taylor was 89.

His wife, Theodora Taylor, said the cause of death was a heart attack. He died Tuesday night.

Though he had a noteworthy career as a musician, Billy Taylor was probably best known as a jazz advocate.

He was the first black to lead a television studio orchestra in the 1950s. He founded Jazzmobile in the 1960s to bring free music to urban followers. He was host of a popular jazz show on National Public Radio, and he profiled musicians for CBS' Sunday Morning show.

William Taylor was born July 24, 1921, in Greenville, N.C.


Copyright © 2010 The Associated Press

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127 Entries

December 28, 2017

It is my hope that all affected by his loss receive comfort from God. He provides peace of mind and heart and hope. Phillipians 4:6,7

February 28, 2017

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Long Family

December 28, 2015

Taylor Family,
We are sorry for your loss. Look forward to the day when we all can say, "Death where is your victory? Death where is your sting." (1 Corinthians 15:54) As you await that glorious day, keep yourselves in God's love.

victor checketts

August 22, 2013

My deepest condolences go to the family of that great promoter of this wonderful jazz music. Dr. Billy Taylor. I saw him and his trio when they came to the jazz at the Hilton series. His radio program on NPR was so awesome. I can just imagine the great jam session that is taking place in heaven right now. I have no doubt that Dr. T is swinging with the other greats. R.I.P Dr. T I am so glad we will always have your great music to remember you by.

Deborah Campbell

February 15, 2011

To the Taylor family,
Dr. Taylor inspired, encouraged, and mentored thousands of students in the Jazz in July program each summer at the University of Massachusetts, where my daughter and I were blessed with opportunities to meet and learn from him. In each moment of conversation and learning, he exemplified the values that I cherish most - kindness, integrity, humility, respect, and love.
His teachings and example fan out to each person who learns of him. I know that many of my students, young children who loved to sing "I Wish I Knew How...." will never forget that song. They, in turn, will sing the song to others, and Billy's spirit will continue to thrive.
As family is forever, Billy's continued life in each person that he touched is forever.
One personal story - around the time I met him, my mom was suffering from strokes. I was amazed when he told of having had a stroke and "re-learning" to play the piano. I must have asked him about the individual effects of his stroke; I will always remember his reply -"Well, it wasn't the biggest stroke, but it was more stroke than I wanted."
Your family is in my thoughts and prayers, and will continue to be, in the weeks and months to come.

With deepest sympathy,
Deborah J. Campbell

Bert Konowitz

January 11, 2011

Elegant is how I would attempt to describe Dr. Billy Taylor, as a compassionate person, an inspired mentor and a musician who summarized the art of music through performance, composition and teaching. I had the honor of having my Teachers College Columbia University SPIRIT Improv ensemble perform with him as well as savoring his authenticity as he visited my Jazz classes at the College. To Theodora, Kim and the family, we mourn this great loss with you.
Our concert in May will pay tribute to this creator and custodian of "America's Classical Music".
Dr. Bert Konowitz, Professor, Teachers College Columbia University.

M.L. Manns-Meekins

January 10, 2011

I am so sorry to hear of Dr. Taylor's passing. As a former music student in the 70's at Virginia Commonwealth University I had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Taylor on one of his visits to Richmond, VA. His lecture was to a small number of students so we got to experience his lecture & demonstration up close. It was great! My condolences to family and friends. God bless.

John McLaughlin

January 8, 2011

I extend my sympathy to the Taylor Family. Dr. Taylor did much to educate America and the world about Jazz. He will be long remembered for his appearances on the CBS Sunday Morning show. Dr. Taylor made a positive difference during his life. We were blessed to have had him during our time.

cassandra griffen

January 6, 2011

I will always remember the moments I had with Dr. Taylor at his neice's house in Baltimore some years ago. I will always cherish his music and dedication to the cause. Cassandra Griffen, Photojournalist

patricia holloman

January 6, 2011

Dear Teddi and Family- I just learned of Billy's passing. please accept my deep and sincere condolences. He was a true legend and for many good reasons. Our generation is passing the torch and much remains to be done. In sorrow and community, Patricia Leo Holloman ( Mrs. John L.S. Holloman, Jr.)

January 5, 2011

Condolences to the Taylor family. Kim, your dad was a musical genius loved and admired by many. What a legacy in our lifetime! God bless you.
Stephanie Berry Collier,
Missouri City, TX

Linda Brown-Burton

January 4, 2011

Heartfelt prayers to the Taylor Family. Dr. Taylor's gift was a true blessing to everyone and his legacy is eternal. Rest in God's peace... the ultimate freedom.

January 4, 2011

My prayers go out to Mrs. Theodora Taylor and family. Dr. Billy was such an inspiration to me. I remember hearing him play "I wish I knew how it would feel to be free" on the radio in Philly as I was growing up. We were poor but my mom bought his album. I also bought the sheet music and taught myself how to play this song almost wearing the grooves off the vinyl record. Even though I never met Dr. Taylor he has been with me throughout my life. He has been a quiet, talented force spurring so many on. As I play the beginning and ending of my favorite song I thank God that He gave us Dr. Taylor and that you and your family shared him with us. The world is so much richer for having had his talent. The scent of the rose is enhanced as the tears we shed fall on its petals. Dr. Taylor will always be dear to my heart.
Sincerely, Avis A. Shaw (Morrow, GA)

Deb Whitmore

January 4, 2011

I saw Dr. Taylor when he came to Peoria to play with Ramsey Lewis. He was a last minute sub, but he was better than anyone else could have been. My mom, dad, husband and I were true Dr. Taylor fans.

January 4, 2011

A true gentleman and a class act. I will miss hearing his music and his insightful commentary. May he rest in peace.

January 4, 2011

mydeepestsorrowatthistimeforthelossofbilly
taylor.ourfriendshipbeganabout50yearsago
whenmyhusbandCharlieSmithwashisdrummerbefohisdeath.somanymemoriesnotenoughtimetowritthemall.hewasoneofakindandIwillneverforgethim Eloise Smith

Rosalind Woodruff

January 4, 2011

Dear Taylor Family,
We were so very sorrow to read of your loss in the newspaper. May the God of all comfort and tender mercies comfort you and your family during your time of sorrow.
2nd Corinthians1:3

Samaria Graham

January 4, 2011

Dr. Billy Taylor was very giving of his time. When I was in Hunter College he was our special dinner guest in the Home Ec. apartment when Jackie Kennedy couldn't come. He played "The Barefoot Contessa" for one of my dance recitals.

I am glad to have known such a talented person.

Many thanks to his family for sharing him with us.

His talents will never pass away.

January 3, 2011

He was such a gentleman. My favorite song is "I wish I knew how it felt to be Free"

Lawrence Isaac

Harold Doherty

January 3, 2011

He was a delight every time I saw him.

Vernard Atkins

January 2, 2011

I remember listening to Dr. Taylor on the radio when I was very young; perhaps six or seven years old. He was on WLIB AM, which was a "day timer", meaning that they ceased broadcasting when the sun went down. I remembered looking forward to spring, not only because of the warm weather, but because, it meant that I could spend an extra thirty or forty-five minutes listening to his show. It is largely because of Dr. Taylor that I have come to love Jazz the way that I do; not to mention the many evenings that I spent listening to legends on the Jazzmobile, which he founded.

My deepest sympathies go out to the family of this visionary.

nanci callahan

January 2, 2011

Not only was Billy Taylor one of the moat talented jazz artists and mdia spokesmen for the entire genre of jazz, I believe he was one of the most universally loved and respected men in the world!
Billy , we love you, and you will always be with us.
Nanci Callahan, producer and journalist
212 496-2030

Brenda Lane

January 2, 2011

Dr. Billy lived and breathed this great American art form to the fullest. We will forever thank him for enriching our lives through his music, and with his insight. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and of course, his fans.
RIP, brother Bill.

Ramsey Lewis and Billy Taylor 1990 "The Piano Style"

Sara R. Henry

January 2, 2011

Tal Henry

January 2, 2011

Billy Taylor, like my dad Tal Henry started their music in North Carolina. He was a trememdous success in all of his many contributions to the world of Jazz. His music will live on.

Billy Taylor lives on forever.

Sara R. Henry

January 2, 2011

Sara R. Henry

January 2, 2011

My love for music meant knowing Billy Taylor's teaching improvisation in college. Remembering so well his style and helping others to learn. He regrets that youth today do not have the same chances as we in the past. So sorry to hear of his death, he will live with us forever.

Sara R. Henry

January 2, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Robert William Wolff

January 2, 2011

My sympathy to all of Billy Taylor's family. After hearing him for years, I was gratified to meet him when he performed in the newly opened Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center late in the 80s. His music was a perfect match with the Jaeb Theatre, where he was a smash hit. His music will always be with me, and millions of others.

January 2, 2011

Billy Taylor-- Dr Taylor was a member of the New York Alumni- Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. I had the great fortune to have several conversations with him over the past 3-4 years in his capacity as a Senior member of the chapter. Always delightful, always entertaining, always informative and forever a treasure. TH

Daisy Taylor

January 2, 2011

Dr. Taylor you will be sadly miss my heart goes out to Mrs Taylor and the rest of the family

Jimmy Maddox

January 1, 2011

As a young man I first heard Dr Billy Taylor on WSOK's "Jazz After Midnight" in Savannah, GA.
Thanks, in part, to that experience I have been a career musician my entire adult life.
Thank you for teaching us to be better musicians and better human beings, Dr Taylor. We shall meet in that sweet by and by.

Harvey Hochberg

January 1, 2011

I loved Dr Taylor,because he enriched my life with his enthusiasm and knowledge..."Abiento,my friend!"......

January 1, 2011

My deepest sympathy to your family. He was a man that had many accomplishments throughout his lifetime. And loved by many. My you find strength in these words found at Psalms 46:1.It says, "God is for us a refuge and strength, A help that is readily to be found during distresses.

Tom Smith

January 1, 2011

May the God of all comfort, comfort the family, friends and fans of Billy Taylor. Psalm 34:18 assures us that the God of all comfort is near those broken at heart and crushed in spirit he saves.

A. H.

January 1, 2011

My deepest condolences. I always remember Revalation 21:3,4 at times like this. I hope it comforts you.

"With that I heard a loud voice from the throne say: “Look! The tent of God is with mankind, and he will reside with them, and they will be his peoples. And God himself will be with them. And he will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.�

Jon Davis

January 1, 2011

Thankyou for sharing your knowledge RIP

Michael Augustus

January 1, 2011

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

Dolon Peete

January 1, 2011

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Margaret Beard

January 1, 2011

To the Family and Friends of Mr. William Taylor,
May you continue to hold on to dear memories of your loved one. Jazz is such a beautiful thing. May you know that our "Heavenly Father is healing the brokenhearted one and is binding up their painful spots." Psalm 147:3.
You are in my prayers.

Curtis Jones

January 1, 2011

To the Taylor Family:
I am a 47 Yr old for Erie Pa Billy was an inspiration to me when i listened to his NPR Radio broadcast he will be sadly missed i will keep the Taylor Family in my Prayers....

January 1, 2011

Ms Taylor and family, I met Mr. Taylor through his visits to the CBS's Sunday Morning Show. It delighted me to see accomphished young black men at the top of their craft. We need more men like him.

Dr. Preston McKever-Floyd

January 1, 2011

To the Taylor Family, Thank you for sharing Dr. Taylor with the rest of the world. He will never be gone, because his legacy will live on through the lives he has touched.

Shirley

December 31, 2010

To the Taylor Family:
May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and gave everlasting comfort and good hope by means of underserved kindness, comfort your hearts and make you firm in this time of sorrow.

lillian Crosby

December 31, 2010

Hello ! Taylor's ! I would like to extend my fellow feeling to you all. Lossing a dear love one breaks the circle of life for all. Mr. Taylor had a part in forfilling the bible at Ps.90:10," Some person will live to be 70 years and others 80 years because of special mightness" he live over 80 years. It will be a great day when dying is gone forever. I am so looking forward to that time because I too loss my dear mother and know the affects. Mr. taylor love of music was enjoedy by many to make their lives better and happy.May the many accomplishments and cherish memories of Mr. Taylor help to suport you all on the journel of life.

December 31, 2010

I remember Dr. Taylor for his wonderful programs on public radio and in interviews he gave to various media outlets. He was such a wonderful EDUCATOR!! As a teacher, I borrowed a great deal from his style, presentation and intelligence. He will be much missed! May his memory and legacy continue to inspire us and bless us!

arlett jones

December 31, 2010

gone but will never be for gotten

Tristan Argenti

December 31, 2010

I used to enjoy Billy's sets at the Hickory House on 52nd Street in New York in the mid 50s; they always lasted longer than the other musicians' (45 minutes) and were a creative joy to my ears. He was a great gentleman and will be sorely missed by the jazz community to which he gave so much.

RIP, Billy.

Jean Ford

December 31, 2010

In the mid-1970s when I worked for the National Endowment for the Arts, I had the privilege to meet Dr. Taylor. Besides his remarkable talent as a musician, he was a gentleman, a scholar, a trailblazer and a role model. I also very much enjoyed his work on CBS Sunday Morning. What a gift he was to the world. Offering deepest sympathy to his family and friends. May he rest for all eternity in God's perfect peace.

Lori Tuominen

December 31, 2010

To the Taylor Family,

My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. I had the honor and the pleasure of working with Billy when he would come to UMass Amherst to lecture for the Lively Arts general education class, which I facilitated for several years. Not only was he an incredible musician and jazz educator, he was an amazing human being and an all-around nice guy! I always looked forward to his visits. He will be greatly missed.

Edwina Wilson

December 31, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Antonio Scenna

December 31, 2010

The man who introduced me to Jazz; the early '60's on WNEW AM, Friday nights.

Mary Ann Wallace-Kelly

December 31, 2010

To The Taylor Family:

Weeping endureth for the night, but joy will come in the morning. I had the pleasure of seeing and hearing Mr. Taylor performance at the Lafayette Presbyterian Church in Brooklyn, New York. May Mr. Billy Taylor rest in eternal peace forever.

Lela Anderson, arr./comp.

December 31, 2010

In all things give thanks. Thank God for the life and legacy of Billy Taylor.
I had the unique experience of hearing him play, as he shared a wealth of musical history and experience in a master class in Houston. Looking eternally youthful, he told stories of performances and stylistic idioms of late, great musicians he'd shared the stage with. Fabulous! Unbelievable!
And he played so effortlessly! Magnificent! He will truly be missed.
But let us take comfort, knowing all is well. In all things give thanks.

Larry Shepard

December 31, 2010

Taylor Family,
Dr. Billy Taylor is one of the great jazz artist of our time. I enjoyed watching his musicians profile on CBS's Sunday Morning Show.

durwood fincher

December 31, 2010

A LEGEND IN OUR TIME. BILLY TAYLOR WAS AS SMOOTH AS HIS JAZZ. WE ARE ALL BETTER FOR HIM AND WHAT HE LEAVES BEHIND. DR. SEUSS SAID IT BEST. . ."DON'T CRY BECAUSE IT'S OVER, SMILE BECAUSE IT HAPPENED."
d. fincher/atlanta

Helena Lewis

December 31, 2010

To the Entire Taylor Family,
You have my heartfelt condolences in your lost of Mr. Taylor. He was and will always be one of the greatest jazz musician. I appreciate his tenacity to be the Ambassador of Goodwill for Jazz worldwide. As a Harlemite, I am the proud benefactor of the Jazzmobile and have enjoyed it since I was a child. May God Bless You All and the Spirit of Mr. Taylor.

December 31, 2010

Thanks for keeping Mary Lou Williams' Music alive. Thanks for keeping JAZZ alive.

Peace & Prayers & Sympathy, DLJ - SS, Md.

A Virginian

December 31, 2010

Thanks for all the years of great jazz.

Micheal L. Nesbitt

December 31, 2010

My Sincere Condolence..

Micheal L. Nesbitt
Burbank,CA.

Willie Gary

December 31, 2010

Our grestest sympathy to you Billy and family. We have admired your work and enjoyed it to the fullest. Rest in peace.
A fan for life, play on in the hereafer!

William F. Johnson,Jr.

December 30, 2010

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

December 30, 2010

To the Taylor family,
I am sorry to read about your loss. Mr. Taylor was my father's roommate at VA State.(Wilbert P. Harris) I met Mr. Taylor several times.
My prayer's are with you at this time.
Camilla

Veronica Ballard

December 30, 2010

Mr. Taylor left a beautiful legacy to the world of jazz music. I was blessed to see Mr. Taylor at Norfolk State University some years ago.
Thank you for your talents.

Veronica Ballard (Norfolk,VA)

The Sanders and Gant Famlies

December 30, 2010

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Gregory McCallum

December 30, 2010

As a graduate of Virginia State University's music department, I remember our professors talking about Mr. Taylor and his piano playing. I had to find some of his music and listen. WOW was all I could say. It was hard to believe that he sat in the same classrooms as we were sitting in. It made you realize that your potential could be reached if you put forth the effort. Thank you Mr. Taylor for giving us a lesson and never even knowing or meeting us.
Rest in peace. Blessing and prayers to the family.

Dorothy

December 30, 2010

Though I did not know Mr. Taylor, but I d like "jazz". My condolences are with his family. May good memories live on.

December 30, 2010

He was loved and appreciated. I remember seeing him at the Kennedy Center. May God Bless and keep you during this time. A Fan in DC

Tim Smith

December 30, 2010

The whole world swings just a little bit less today. I was saddened by the news of Dr. Taylor's passing. His album with Gerry Mulligan "Live at MCG" will always be one of my favorites. God bless the Taylor family.

Margaret King Stanley

December 30, 2010

I met Billy Taylor about 60 years ago when he was playing on 52nd street at the Hickory House! I loved his music so much I went to hear him again and again until he finally introduced himself and asked who I was. From then on, we remained friends and I saw him whenever he was performing in my city or one I was visiting. He was a wonderful person and musician and will be greatly missed. My sympathy to all of the family.

Kim Hans

December 30, 2010

Dear Theodora..I am writing to send my sympathy to you at this hard time...Death is our enemy and in the last book of the Holy Scriptures chapter 21:4 it says that God will wipe out all the tears from our eyes and that death will be no more...That time is so near so hang in there and continue to pray...Sincerely, Kim Hans

Gloria Stephens

December 30, 2010

I was introduced to the musical genius of the GREAT, Dr. Billy Taylor,by my late husband who considered himself a PURE jazz enthusiast. This giant's legacy will remain with countless generations to come.

My sincerest condolences.

Jim Pandaru

December 30, 2010

My deepest condolences to the entire Taylor family. I always felt that Billy truly believed in the brotherhood of all men everywhere and the equality, justice, and dignity that goes with it.
I still get chills up and down my spine and can't help my eyes welling up everytime I still hear Billy playing or Nina Simone singing Billy's composition of "I wish that I knew what it means to be free." Peace and Love always.

Malcolm Alter

December 30, 2010

I am very saddened by Dr. Taylor's passing. I was a big fan of his, both as a pianist, and broadcaster. He was a master at both. I had the pleasure of seeing him many years ago at the Newport Jazz Festival as he conducted a piano workshop. My condolences to the family.
Sincerely,

Gifford Holt

December 30, 2010

So sorry to hear of his passing but he is now up there with all the other jazz greats! He will be at home with the Duke, Count, Louis, Stan, Dizzy, Bird and all the others. God bless him and the family.

shirley byrd

December 30, 2010

death is not an. but a journey home. someday.you'll be reunted with your love one until then. your loved one will live on in your heart for those we've truly loved. could never beforgotten.

shirley

December 30, 2010

My condolences to the taylor family. I enjoyed Mr. taylor's profiles on CBS Sunday Morning. He will be greatly missed, may God bless you.

Gwendolyn Taylor

December 30, 2010

May Billy Taylor rest in peace, a person who was admired for so many years by those who knows Jazz. Gwen Taylor of Cleveland, Ohio

December 30, 2010

When one has such a gift as Mr. Taylor, and uses it to benefit the world for good. And not allowing other to change his style. He will be greatly miss. May the God of all comfort be with the family during this most difficult time.

Jack Lambke

December 30, 2010

Billy was a wonderful jazz pianist, who personality lite the stage and studios on which he performed and recorded. I started buyind his recording almost 50 years ago, and still find his style as relazing as he seemed to make it appear.

December 30, 2010

Super great person, excellent musician and spoke person for jazz. Will be greatly missed.

Katherine Ruff

December 30, 2010

Thank you Billy Taylor. Listened to his radio program in New York,as a high school student.Enjoyed his interviews on
the CBS sunday morning program.

December 30, 2010

I HAD THE HONOR TO MEET AND WORK WITH BILLY BACK IN THE 70s WHEN I RAN A JAZZ CLUB IN CHICAGO CALLED "RICKS CAFE AMERICAIN"....THOUGH I ONLY KNEW FOR 2 WEEKS,I FOUND HIM TOPS IN HIS JAZZ INTERPERTATIONS AND HIS GENTLENESS AS A HUMAN BEING....WHENEVER I SAW HIM PERFORM ON TV OR HEARD HIM ON THE RADIO I WAS ALWAYS PROUD THAT I HAD MADE HIS AQUAINTANCE, HE'LL BE MISSED ON SO MANY LEVELS.........JERRY KAYE, OF RCKS CAFE

December 30, 2010

This profoundly gifted jazz pianist will be missed. I will cherish his performances on his CDs all the more. My sympathy goes out to his family. Adele Pollack, Scranton, Pa.

Charles DeBracy

December 30, 2010

I grew up playing the piano and consider myself a "dabbler" at best, but have been blown away by Mr. Taylor's playing. The quality of his music, as well as the music that he embraced, was and is outstanding. There is now one less musician in the world who values substance over style.
Condolences and a heartfelt thank-you to Mr. Taylor and his family.

George A

December 30, 2010

A class act in every respect. As a human being and a musician.

December 30, 2010

Dr. Billy Taylor, eloquent as a pianist, and as a tireless, passionate advocate of jazz, America's classic music -- we are thankful that you graced this world with your presence and talents. Condolences to all the family and friends.
Willard

pat cascarano

December 30, 2010

I met Mr Taylor at Logan airport in Boston He was impressed that I loved Lambert Hendricks & Ross!! we talked about jazz and the greats...A nice man !!

K Siegel

December 30, 2010

Every year, my fifth grade music students study Jazz music and Dr. Taylor is the first person we talk about and listen to. We perform his C-A-G song on the Xylophones and they love it. My sympathy goes out to his family and friends.

December 30, 2010

I am sorry for the loss for Mr.Taylor,,,,,, May the God of all comfort and tender mercies be with the family and friends as they grief. My deepest condolence

Wanisha B

December 30, 2010

Lost but will not be forgotten by many. My sympathy goes out to the family, friends and fans who've supported this music pioneer. May you find comfort from the Almighty God by means of his word. -John 5:28,29

sunny stix

December 30, 2010

play that piano billy
good job
sunny stix

S. Walker

December 30, 2010

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Carolyn Stinchcomb Barnes

December 30, 2010

Thanks to the family for supporting Billy Taylor in developing such a great legacy of jazz. May you be comforted with the fond memories of his God given talent and desire to share it with the world.

December 30, 2010

Keep that s-m-o-o-o-t-h delivery Billy. Give my best to Kuralt, and and as I whisper a prayer for you, please put in a good word for those of us you have left behind. We are again comforted by the Hope He gives us, and His promise that we will see you again.

Condolences to your family. As the grieving gives way to joyous memories, please know that Billy was highly respected, and will be missed by you, as well as those who enjoyed listening to him speak, and play the piano.

Fred

Will Hargrove

December 30, 2010

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Jack Engliish

December 30, 2010

Dr. Taylor was beloved by all who knew of him and listended to his playing and his dialogues. He was a giant who will be missed.

Jack English

December 30, 2010

Dr. Taylor was beloved by all who knew of him and listended to his playing and his dialogues. He was a giant who will be missed.

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