Bailey Prairie Kid

The family of Taylor Hall Jr., affectionately known to the world as "The Bailey's Prairie Kid," is heartbroken to announce his passing on May 8, 2025, at the age of 93. Born on February 15, 1932, in Bailey's Prairie, Texas, to Taylor Hall Sr. and Ermer Jackson Hall. Taylor spent his entire life rooted in the land, legacy, and community of Brazoria County. From the time he could walk, he was horseback-working cattle and building a reputation as a true cowboy. Over the course of his life, he worked nearly every ranch in Brazoria County and became one of the most respected cowboys in Texas. Taylor Hall, Jr. was more than a cowboy, he was a rodeo legend. Over his 54-year career, he competed in arenas across the country and earned numerous accolades, including:
1966 – Champion Saddle Bronc Rider 1968 – Champion Bareback Bronc Rider 1972 & 1973 – Champion Steer Wrestler 1975 – Champion Bull Rider 1978 – All-Around Champion (saddle bronc, bareback, steer wrestling & bull riding) His outstanding achievements earned him inductions into several prestigious Halls of Fame • Texas Rodeo Cowboy Hall of Fame (2001) • National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum – Cowboys of Color Hall of Fame • Bull Riders Hall of Fame • Oklahoma Rodeo Hall of Fame Recognized by the Stark Museum of Art for his cultural contributions
In 2023, Brazoria County honored him with the declaration of "Bailey's Prairie Kid Day" in recognition of his incredible impact and 91st birthday. Taylor was also featured in rodeo documentaries and museum exhibitions celebrating the legacy of Black cowboys in America.
He attended Marshall Elementary School under the guidance of Professor T.J. Wright and was baptized at Burrell Chapel Baptist Church as a child. Later in life, he married Faye Marie Williams of Brazoria, Texas, and together they raised a family grounded in strength and tradition. Taylor was preceded in death by his beloved children, Taylor Johnican, Opal Hall, and Edward Hall, his parents, three brothers, and three sisters.
He leaves behind a legacy cherished by many: Siblings – Sherman Hall, Mary Woodard, and John Hall; Children – Rhonda Hall, Patrick Hall, Mechealinda Sanford, and Temple Carter, close family friends – George and Margie Munson; And a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, rodeo family, and lifelong friends. Taylor Hall Jr.'s legacy will forever ride on in the hearts of those he touched. He was a trailblazer, a symbol of strength, and a true Texas legend.