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Benjamin Epps Obituary

Benjamin Taylor Epps

Virginia Beach - Benjamin Taylor Epps unexpectedly passed away early Thursday morning September 18, 2014. Taylor will be dearly missed by all of his family and friends. Taylor was welcomed into the world on October 20, 1994 by parents Lauren and Monte Epps and soon thereafter was joined by brother Julian Ehrich Epps.

Taylor was a member of Nimmo United Methodist Church and graduated from Kellam High School in 2013. Taylor was a Boy Scout with Troop 14 at Saint Michael's Lutheran Church and was awarded the prestigious Eagle Scout in 2012. Taylor's thoughtful and caring nature was evident with his Eagle Scout project which provided those with special needs the ability to enjoy the benefits of equestrian activities at Equa Kids Therapeutic Riding Center. Taylor was employed with Mahi Mah's in Virginia Beach.

Taylor lived life with a passion to which we should all strive. Taylor cherished life in the outdoors and his adventurous spirit led him to experience life to the fullest, constantly attuned for the next opportunity to travel. Taylor's peregrinations to Hawaii's North Shore, Sun Valley, the New Orleans Jazz Festival, Aruba, New York City, and Colorado are just a few examples of his quest for adventure. He was an accomplished cook learning under the direction of his Uncle Mitchell.

Taylor was especially talented in finding prime surfing conditions. He routinely rose early to enjoy the waves. His daring personality always pushed people around him to break out of their comfort zone and do things they thought they were incapable of doing.

Taylor is survived by his maternal grandparents Dorothee and Allen Taylor of Greenville, NC and was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Margie and Marvin Epps of Emporia, Virginia. Surviving aunts and uncles are Barbara Venters of Tarboro, NC, Lynn and Richard Epps of Virginia Beach, Gwynn and Mitchell August of San Francisco, California, Tracy Epps of Emporia, Virginia, Eliza Taylor and Kevin Boland of Roswell, Georgia, Adelia Taylor Schiffman, Greensboro, North Carolina, Martha Taylor and Chester Brown, III of Greensboro, North Carolina and Susan Taylor and Matt Block of Atlanta, Georgia,.

Taylor is also survived by his cousins Morgan Epps, Michael Epps, Rives and Allen Schiffman, Ashling and Conor Boland, Hardy and Ellis Brown, and Dempsey, Copeland, Hunter, and Mariah Block.

In addition to his family, Taylor is survived by many friends who share his zest for life.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Sunday, September 21, 2014 at Nimmo United Methodist Church, 2200 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, Virginia, 23456. Memorials may be made to Indo Jax Surf Charities, 8935 Tilbury Drive, Wilmington, NC 28411.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Sep. 20, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
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December 19, 2018

I miss you so much. I miss your beautiful face. I miss your beautiful soul. I love you, your mom. I wish I had been a better mom. I love you Taylor!

August 8, 2018

I miss you so much, I'm not going to second guess what happened. I just miss you .

November 3, 2014

November 3, 2014

Sandy & Pete Nickenig

November 3, 2014

I just learned of Taylor's untimely death and read his obituary. I never met Taylor but I was glad to learn that such an adventurous, positive young man graced the earth for almost 20 years. Rest in peace Taylor. Your memory will always be for a blessing.

Anne Campbell

October 6, 2014

I was deeply saddened by the news of Taylor. I know he will be greatly missed. I hope the wonderful memories you carry will sustain you always. Please know my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Brenda and Brad Carraway

September 29, 2014

We are so sorry to hear about Benjamin. We had not read our E-mail for a few days and just found it out today. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all in this time.

In Christ's Love,
Brenda and Brad Carraway

Bonnie Ferguson

September 26, 2014

Lauren, Monte, and Julian - I am so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers to help you through this difficult time and the days ahead.

Jean Harrison, Wright

September 24, 2014

So sorry to hear of your son's death, he sounds like such a fine young man. You all are in our thoughts and prayers!

Jean Harrison, Wright

September 24, 2014

So sorry to hear of your son's death, he sounds like such a fine young man. You all are in our thoughts and prayers!

amerylis epps

September 24, 2014

Love and prayers to you and your family.

Tiffany Jolly

September 23, 2014

Dear Lauren, Monty & Julian,

We are so saddened at the loss of your Taylor. He was such a kind young man, and I always enjoyed seeing him & Julian around the neighborhood and the sleepovers and fun times the boys had together. The Epic Sleepover where the boys were in the canal out back, but hey they were all fine :) Although we moved to Williamsburg, Tanner remained close and was devastated at the news. We found Taylor's pictures last night from middle school birthday parties and later skating at Skate High. Surfing by "the turn" in Sandbridge. I often wondered how that many young people could fit in one car to go on their adventures, but they were so happy together. His smile was just beautiful, always. We are thinking of you all and sending love and prayers and hugs your way. Love, Tiffany, Colton & Tanner Jolly

Don and Faye Dempsey

September 22, 2014

Lauren, as time passes and you return to your life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.
May your heart soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

a

September 22, 2014

Monte and Lauren, I am so very sorry to learn of your loss. Benjamin Taylor sounds like a wonderful son and role model, a truly adventurous spirit, and a caring member of the community. I am sorry that I did not know him. My thoughts are with you and your family at this difficult time.

Sincerely,
Elizabeth Tillar

John P. Harrison

September 22, 2014

I extend my condolences - Hang in There! Your Friend John P.

Patsy Ferguson

September 22, 2014

It was so very sad reading about your son. What a loss. I am so sorry.

September 22, 2014

You all are in our thoughts and prayers. May God bless you all with His peace and strength. Johnny and Paige Morgan

Amy and John Hoye

September 22, 2014

Please know that we are thinking of all of you and we are so very sorry.

Jennifer Box

September 22, 2014

I met Taylor in Troop 14 where my son Logan attends. I didn't have much communication with him but I do have a fond memory. I served on the committee and when I needed to speak to Taylor or Julian about something I almost always got them mixed up. I remember them both smiling those beautiful smiles and very politely correcting me.

My son served on Taylors Eagle Scout project as well and I was quite impressed with his leadership and drive. Please accept my deepest condolences and know I have been and will continue to pray for a peace in your hearts that can only come from our Heavenly Father. Grief is the ultimate price we pay in exchange for love.

September 22, 2014

I don't even know you and feel your pain. My younger brother was only 24 when he was killed in a car accident and it was so painful for all of us. Your son reminds me of him by the things I have read here. Prayers coming your way!!

JoAnn Brett

September 22, 2014

Dear Monte & Family, So very sorry for your loss. My thoughts & prayers are with all of you. I had email from Gwynn & I know she is devastated. I heard her speak of Taylor & his brother so often. Thinking of each of you. Love to each of you. JoAnn Brett

Lois & Richard Bloom

September 22, 2014

We didn't now your son, but the others in your family were well known to us over the years. It's always hard to lose someone young. You have our deepest sympathy at this time of sorrow.

September 22, 2014

I just read about the loss of Benjamin, I am so very sorry. Please accept my condolensenses and prayers for you and your family A classmate of Monte's in
69 . Dale Barnes Rhodes

September 22, 2014

Lauren, Monte, Julian
Ty brought so much joy and love into the life of Colton and all his friends that Ty will forever have a place with them in their hearts and souls. May God grant you peace and comfort.
God Bless Scott and Beth DeRidder

Ruth Taft Cecil

September 22, 2014

We are all praying for you and your family. Praying especially that Julian will be brave.

Josie Rosa

September 22, 2014

Monty,
Prays for you and your family. Your memories of him will help you through this difficult time.

September 22, 2014

Monte and family,
So very sorry for your loss.your family is in my thoughts and prayers. Katherine Lee Queen

Judy & Elisa Trent

September 22, 2014

Lauren & Family,
My heart breaks for the loss of your dear Taylor. I am praying and will continue to pray for all of you. Good Memories flood through my mind of our Mom's group raising our little ones & enjoying them play, swim & grow up. My friend whose daughter passed at 16yrs old said knowing that God knows how many Days we have on this earth & there is nothing we can do to change it helped her in her grieving process. Sending Love and Prayers

September 21, 2014

We are so sorry for your lost. We loved having him over to our house and most importantly a big part of Austins life. He will be so missed.

Mike Grizzard

September 21, 2014

Monte, so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you and your family.

September 21, 2014

I am so very sorry and my heart is breaking with yours. Gwynn, I remember when he was very, very young and your comments on what a kind, sensitive and beautiful soul he was. My family's prayers to your family.
Beverly North

Marsha Whitehair

September 21, 2014

My deepest condolences in the loss of your beloved son. Having sons myself, I cannot even begin to imagine the heart break your family is experiencing. I pray for God to give you strength. Lean on your family and friends and cherish your memories.

Mary Beth and Scott Vincent

September 21, 2014

We are so very sorry, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. No parent should face this.

Sara Reid Gordon

September 21, 2014

Monte and family, I am saddened to hear of the loss of your son, Taylor. I know you are heartbroken, but remember he is always there in your heart. Prayers to all the family.
Sara Reid Gordon

Charlotte Alsop Krovic

September 21, 2014

Monte and family
So sorry to hear about your son. There is no greater loss. You will be in our prayers.

Esther Newcomb

September 21, 2014

So sorry to hear about Taylor. Dylan and I met him at Troop 14 in the scouting family. Prayers to the family at this time.

September 21, 2014

Shocked and sadden by the loss of your son, my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Bill Edwards

An old picture I found from middle school

Cole Warren

September 21, 2014

I could talk about Taylor for hours. He was one of my closest friends growing up. I'll never forget all the good times spent at his house hanging out with him. He was a great friend. He was always smiling, and he always had the ability to put a smile on anyone else's face. My favorite memories were our snowboarding trips in high school, he was the kind of guy to be the first one up, trying to wake everyone else up and get the first chair, and at the end of the day he was the one pushing us to stay for the last chair. He will be missed.

Arnie Lucius

September 21, 2014

Lauren, Monte and Julian,

Taylor's smile and kind, fun-loving nature has left and indelible print on my heart and soul. I remember with such clarity the times our boys went to preschool and played together doing what those silly boys did. What great times they had. I have prayed each day for you all and will continue to honor Taylor's life.

My words are not adequate to express the sorrow I feel for your loss. Taylor was an inspiration to everyone around him. I am so blessed and lucky to have known him and have him part of my family's life. I will keep his spirit alive with the many sacred memories I hold close to my heart.

Joanne Roach

September 21, 2014

The fact that you will not be able to speak to Taylor again, to hold, touch, smile, or even argue with him is enough to make you feel vulnerable and helpless. Life would never be the same without their presence, but it is important to move on, as they too have moved on from this journey of life to the next and also know that I am here next door to help in any way I can.

Pipsico "Rock Climbing Wall"

Sandra Borror

September 20, 2014

September 20, 2014

So very sorry for your loss. You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Terry Brown

Wendy, Charley, Jordan & Justin

September 20, 2014

Lauren, Monte, Julian and Family - Our words are not adequate to express the sorrow we feel. Our hearts are broken for you and we hold you close in our thoughts and prayers. This quote is just a small sentiment of the bond you have with Taylor that will be everlasting and we hope you find comfort in its words.

"I know for certain that we never lose the people we love, even to death. They continue to participate in every act, thought and decision we make. Their love leaves an indelible imprint in our memories. We find comfort in knowing that our lives have been enriched by having shared their love.” -(Leo Buscaglia)

September 20, 2014

I can't begin to express how important, special, and comforting all these words mean to me, Julian, monte, and our families. Thank all you so very much.

Taylor at Boy Scout summer camp

September 20, 2014

our deepest sympathy for your unimaginable loss. It was a privilege to have Taylor (and Julian) in our Scouting family. We will cherish his sense of humor and friendship always. God's peace, Ed and aNna rybaT

Paula Byers

September 20, 2014

A beautiful soul that will be dearly missed.... our hearts break for the family. For his friends my deepest sympathy ! Taylor was one of a kind!!!!
God Bless.

Paul Jr.'s 11th birthday party

The Taylor Family

September 20, 2014

Lauren, Monte, Julian and Family, we were so very sad to hear of the loss of Taylor. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Paul Jr., Paul & Ronda Taylor

Amy and Bill Turner

September 20, 2014

So incredibly sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this very difficult time. All our love...

Anita Monroe

September 20, 2014

I'm so sorry for your loss. Praying peace and sweet memories for your family and Taylor's friends.

Michaela Falvey

September 20, 2014

Loved having Taylor at our home so much this summer. It was an honor getting to know him. He was a gentle soul with a beautiful smile. So thankful that our son, Connor, brought Taylor into our family's lives. Your loss is one that no parent should suffer. May you take comfort that your son had so many friends that loved him like a brother. They will forever be there for you as well as Julian.
Michaela Falvey

Jeanne Ritchie

September 20, 2014

May God give you the strength to bear this horrendous loss. You and your family are in our hearts and prayers.

Heather Bush

September 20, 2014

Sending love and prayers for you guys. Xo, lonnie & heather

September 20, 2014

Lauren,Monte and Julian, May God keep you close to Him and bless you during this sad time in your life. Our family sends you love and deepest heartfelt sympathy. We hold you in our hearts and keep you in our prayers. Special love, Mary-Hannah and Bill Taft

Joan Durand

September 20, 2014

So very sorry for your loss

Lynne Williams

September 20, 2014

Lauren, Monte and Julian...sending hugs and prayers for strength and comfort to you. My heart hurts for you, all your family, and the many friends that Taylor clearly touched in his life. God bless you and keep you close. Love, Lynne

Pat and Kay Callahan

September 20, 2014

So very sorry for your loss. A child is the ultimate sacrifice. Our love to all.

Troop 14 Summer Camp

Sandra Borror

September 20, 2014

Prayers for your family. One of the best times I had at Troop 14 was taking them to summer camp. Taylor will be missed by so many in the scouting community.

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