William Hayes Taylor

William Hayes Taylor, of St. Louis, passed away on February 8, 2026.

Born October 26, 1942, Bill devoted his life to young people, education, and the game he loved. For more than 30 years, he taught social studies at Parkway West High School, where he also coached soccer and shaped generations of students and athletes. As a coach, Bill was tough but deeply encouraging—he expected effort, believed in growth, and would do anything for his players. His teams knew they mattered to him. Over the years, his players became like family, and many carried his lessons far beyond the field.

In 1986, he led Parkway West to the school's first boys soccer state championship, a milestone season that remains a point of pride for the Parkway West community. In recognition of his lasting impact on the sport, Bill was inducted into the Missouri Soccer Hall of Fame.

Bill fiercely loved his family. He is survived by his wife Ali, and was a proud father to his sons Bill (wife Meghan), Brendan (wife Tricia), and Conor, and to his daughter Alison (husband Dan). He was a devoted grandfather to Mairin, William, Alice, James, Cillian, and James Brendan. Being with his grandchildren brought him deep happiness, and he especially loved cheering on his children as they continued the family tradition of teaching and coaching.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved brother Ralph, and his sisters Teddy and Mary Ann. He is also survived by his brother John (wife Meg), along with extended family and friends.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the wonderful caregivers at Laclede Groves for the compassionate care and support they gave Bill and the whole family.

A visitation will be held on Friday, February 13, 2026, at Little Flower Catholic Church, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., with the Funeral Mass beginning at 2:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the Alzheimer's Association: https://events.alz.org/fundraisers/meghantaylor/william-hayes-taylor--sr-