Roger "Bookie" Taylor

PORT BARRE- A Funeral Service will be held for Roger “Bookie” Taylor on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 2:00 PM in the Sibille Funeral Home Chapel in Port Barre. Pastor Henry Wallace will conduct the service. Burial will follow in the First Baptist Cemetery of Krotz Springs. 

On July 29, 2024, surrounded by his loving family at his Residence, “Bookie” set sail on his final journey. Though he may have crossed the horizon physically, his legacy lives on through the memories he created with those who survive him: his devoted family members and cherished friends. “Bookie” was a man who never met a stranger and had a genuine love for making new friends wherever he went.

Born on November 9, 1951, in Opelousas, LA, “Bookie’s” voyage through life was one filled with adventure, dedication, and an unwavering spirit. As a tugboat captain for an impressive 50 years, he navigated the roughest waters with skill and finesse that garnered him respect far and wide.

“Bookie’s” love for the sea was only matched by his passion for music. An accomplished musician who enjoyed singing and playing guitar, he graced numerous stages and played alongside various bands throughout his lifetime, including the Country Dreamers. His talents brought joy to countless hearts and will continue to resonate in the melodies he left behind. 

Beyond his professional and musical pursuits, “Bookie” found solace in nature as a member of the Brushy Bayou Hunting Club for 55 years, where he served as president for four unforgettable decades. His commitment and camaraderie within the hunting community will be remembered fondly by all those who shared his love for the great outdoors.

“Bookie” is survived by his wife of 26 years, Bambi Polotzola; sons, Robbie Taylor (Sharon), Chas Taylor and Caleb Taylor; daughter, Tonya T. Stelly (Joey); brother, Colin Taylor; sisters, Polly Casse (David) and Candy Taylor; 6 grandchildren, Blair Taylor Durham (Michael “Babe”), Hunter Taylor, Kirsten Taylor, Kullen Stelly, Carter Stelly and Annabelle Stelly; 3 great-grandchildren, Jameson, Isla and Ridge Durham; a host of godchildren, nieces and nephews. 

“Bookie” is preceded in death by his parents, Charles J. Taylor, Sr. and Eula Mae Andrus Taylor; siblings, Charles Taylor, Jr., Pearl Guillot, Robert “Toodie” Taylor, Kathy Guillory and Carol Naquin. 

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 from 10:00 AM until the time of service at 2:00 PM in the Sibille Funeral Home of Port Barre. A rosary will be recited at 1:30 PM by Myra Duplechain in the funeral home. 

Pallbearers will be Chas Taylor, Caleb Taylor, Robbie Taylor, Hunter Taylor, Kullen Stelly and Carter Stelly.

As we mourn the loss of a remarkable man, let us also celebrate a life well-lived—a life defined by strength, kindness, and an undying passion for everything he touched. Fair winds and following seas, Captain Roger "Bookie" Taylor. You will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

"Bookie" family would like to send a very special thanks to his great caregivers, Elizabeth Landry and Elisabeth Boast for all the love and care they have provided him. 

Words of Comfort to the family may be expressed at www.sibillefuneralhomes.com. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Sibille Funeral Home of Port Barre.