Photo courtesy of Schrader Funeral Home and Crematory - Ballwin
Ballwin, Missouri
Jul 24, 1988 – Jan 5, 2020 (Age 31)
John F. Taaffe left us on Sunday, January 5. We are still struggling to find answers in this unexpected and devastating loss. But there are a few things of which we are absolutely certain…
We are certain that, above all else, John cherished his family. This included his grandparents; his mother Christine and late father Lloyd; his sister Elizabeth; his many aunts, uncles, and cousins; and his fiancée Abby for whom his adoration knew no bounds.
We know, too, that all of these people cherished him in return, as did his legion of friends. Those closest to John were awed by the might of his intellect and the salve of his humor, the ferocity of his loyalty and the depths of his compassion. Simply being in his presence was an adventure unto itself; he filled our world with laughter and levity and mystery and mischief. He showed us, on a daily basis, the rare and exceptional beauty of being original.
And so we are also certain of this: John remains deeply, endlessly, eternally loved. In that spirit, a celebration of his life will take place at Jefferson Underground (2400 S Jefferson Ave.) on Saturday, January 11, at 2:00 p.m. Those who knew John are encouraged to join and share a memory. These stories, like the man himself, are sure to become the stuff of legend.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to "The Bail Project” in honor of John and his passion for equality in the criminal justice system. The “Bail Project” serves as a critical tool to prevent incarceration and combat racial and economic disparities in the bail system. <https://bailproject.org>
A service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory. Friends may sign the family's on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.
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I am so very sorry to hear about John's passing. He was a good friend to Doug and his unique spirit will truly be missed. My prayers continue for his family, fiancee and many friends. May you be held close in God's loving presence and feel His peace and grace as you move forward.
Patti Gealy
January 13, 2020 | St. Louis, MO | Friend
Praying for your family & sending lots of love. Love, The Ruggeri Family
Holly Ruggeri
January 12, 2020 | Saint Charles, MO | Friend
John Taaffe, you are greatly missed. You were an absolutely amazing brother to Elizabeth and son. I will never forget your sweet, funny, and witty personality. One of my favorite memories was when Elizabeth and I would have our weekly sleepovers and would think of pranks for you while you video gamed downstairs. We would look forward to hanging out and seeing what you were up to because you were so fun to be around! You became another brother to me growing up. I know you are in heaven with...
Amanda Aussieker
January 11, 2020 | New York, NY | Friend
My deepest condolences to all of John Francis' family and loved ones
Debbie Taaffe Trost
January 11, 2020 | Affton, MO | Family
My prayers are lifted...
Terri Pruitt
January 11, 2020 | Florissant, MO | Coworker
Abby, John was certainly a very caring individual and I am so sorry for your loss. May the peace of Christ sustain you in these days to come. Love and Peace,Aunt Jeri Burch
January 10, 2020
I love you Brother. The world was a better place with you in it. Your kindness, compassion and creative spirit brightened the lives of everyone you came in contact with.
You once convinced me you were an alien... and I still kind of believe it. For many reasons, but mostly because of your laugh. Your laugh created an overwhelming euphoric joy in everyone within earshot. I have so much more to say, but I will save it for the celebration of your life.
Thank you for being...
Doug Gealy
January 10, 2020 | St. Louis, MO | Friend
May God bless you during this hard process. You will be on My prayers.
Jaissy Molina
January 10, 2020 | Caguas, PUERTO RICO | Coworker
Our hearts are very heavy with this sad news.
Rick & Sherry Mahoney
January 09, 2020 | Florissant, MO | Neighbor
