James Vaughan Taylor Jr.

1942 - 2024

James Vaughan Taylor, Jr.

August 20, 1942 - November 5, 2024

James "Pat" Taylor died peacefully at his home in Richmond, VA, on November 5, 2024. Born in Roanoke, VA, on August 8, 1942, he was preceded in death by his parents, James Vaughan Taylor and Frances Jenkins Taylor.

Pat leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Diane Kersey Taylor; daughters, Brooke Taylor Lustig (Jay) and Molly Taylor Sheppard; grandson, Samuel Murphy; granddaughter, Emily Sheppard; step-grandsons, Bauer Lustig and Ethan Lustig; brothers, Hunter Taylor (Cathy) and Robert Taylor (Sandy); nieces, Katie, Elizabeth, Emily, Barrett, and Marty.

Pat and Diane met in tenth grade at Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond and were inseparable for 67 years. Together they never missed their daughters' dance, cheering, swim, or sorority events.

Following in his father's footsteps, Pat graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1964. After graduation he taught Chemistry at VMI before serving his country in the Army from 1965-1967. He remained a devoted fan and supporter of the Institute until his last days. He received his MBA from Darden School of Business in 1969. After three years in Houston with Rohm and Haas, Pat returned to Richmond to work for American Filtrona and retired from Filtrona as a Vice President.

In retirement he was involved in community volunteering for Needle's Eye Ministries and tutoring at Linwood Holton Elementary. Pat loved to bird hunt alongside his dogs. He was a gun collector and a student of military history. He was a talented handball player and in later years he took up golf. He enjoyed being a member of All Saints Episcopal, the Commonwealth Club, and the Country Club of Virginia.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, November 25, at 2 p.m., at All Saints Episcopal Church. A reception to follow in Thornton Hall.

Memorials may be made to the VMI Keydet Club, PO Box 932, Lexington, VA, 24450 or All Saints Episcopal Church, 8787 River Road, Richmond, VA 23229.