Edward Taylor

Edward L. "Ed" Taylor, 72, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2025, in Celebration, Florida. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Ed lived a life full of love, laughter, and unwavering devotion to his family, faith, and country.

Born on September 22, 1952, in Providence, Rhode Island, Ed's journey was marked by dedication and service from an early age. After graduating from high school, he proudly served in the United States Navy from 1971 to 1977 as an Electronic Technician. During his military career, he was stationed at NAS Whiting Field and NAS Pensacola and served aboard the USS Lexington aircraft carrier. His time in the Navy instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and patriotism that remained with him throughout his life.

Following his honorable service, Ed pursued higher education at The University of West Florida. There he earned both a Bachelor of Science in Business and a Master's in Business Administration-achievements that reflected his commitment to personal growth and excellence. Ed spent his entire professional career as a dedicated, valued, and much-loved leader and colleague at Gulf Power Company. In 2015, he retired as a District General Manager after 36 years.

Ed was a devout Catholic who found strength and peace through his faith. He was an active parishioner at St. Sylvester Catholic Church in Navarre Beach and later at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Celebration. His involvement with the church extended beyond Sunday services; he cherished traveling with Denise and their St. Sylvester's church group on spiritual journeys that deepened their bond with each other and their community.

In retirement, Ed embraced life with unmatched enthusiasm. He had a passion for travel-especially cruising the world with Denise-and delighted in discovering new places together. Whether exploring distant shores or enjoying quiet moments at home, Ed made every experience meaningful.

A lifelong golfer and avid fisherman, Ed could often be found on the greens or casting a line along the lakeshores near Celebration. His weekly golf games were sacred rituals filled with camaraderie and competition. Fishing brought him peace-a chance to reflect while surrounded by nature.

Ed also had a deep appreciation for film. He loved going to the movies and took great pride in compiling his annual "Top Ten" list. Sports were another lifelong passion; he never missed a New York Yankees game and read box scores religiously each morning. Fall Saturdays were reserved for Florida Gator football-his second sports love-and he relished every moment of game day excitement.

Above all else, Ed was devoted to his family. He is survived by his beloved wife of 52 years and matriarch of the Taylor family, Denise; his children Jennifer and Brandon; granddaughters Charlotte, Kennedy, and Reagan; his brother Alfred Taylor; sisters-in-law Marsha Hartness (Guy) and Vicki Taylor (Rick); as well as countless close friends and loved ones who were touched by his warmth.

Ed had an extraordinary gift for making everyone feel seen and valued-he truly never met a stranger. His legendary storytelling brought joy to many gatherings, but perhaps nothing delighted him more than hearing his granddaughters retell their own tales with the same flair he so lovingly modeled.

We dearly hope that Ed's memory brings comfort to all of us who knew and loved him and that he continues to inspire lives filled with laughter, faith, and adventure. A Funeral Mass will be held on May 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Corpus Christi Catholic Church 1050 Celebration Avenue, Celebration, Florida, 34747. A Funeral Mass will be held on May 9, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Corpus Christi Catholic Church 1050 Celebration Avenue