Mr. James L. Taylor's Obituary
James L. Taylor was the third child of eight born to the late Essie and Frank Taylor, Sr. James transitioned from this life to his eternal life on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 after a brief illness. He grew up in Dickinson, Texas where he graduated from Dickinson High School. He later graduated from Texas Southern University (TSU) where he attended on a full track and field scholarship.
James earned numerous awards, recognitions and records while competing as a track and field athlete. While attending TSU, he met Mary Smith who was also a track star and to that union two sons were born. He later met and married Tonette Smith. To that union a daughter and son were born. He later met and married Carolyn James.
James accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church. He attended several churches in the Houston area. At the time of James’ demise, he was a devoted member of Cornerstone Community Church.
James was a long time Family Manager for Matt Benton and Family. Later James became a sub-contractor with Jenkins Painting Services where his cousin Jerry Jenkins is the owner. James was known to have had a green thumb and was skilled at landscaping. He also tailored his dynamic suits.
James was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Gary Lee Taylor, sister Cynthia Taylor Whitney, and sister – in – law, Cynthia Wallace Taylor.
James leaves to cherish his lasting memories his four sons, DeVonte C. Taylor (Ramsi), Jamaal Payne (Amy) of Huntsville,TX, US Air Force Master Sergeant DeMarrian O. Taylor (Maribeth) of Shreveport, LA and Jay Taylor; his only daughter, Brittney N. Taylor (Christian Scott, Sr.) of Waxahachie, TX; sisters: Sandra Taylor of LaMarque, TX and Rhonda Taylor Turner (Darryl); brothers: Robert Taylor of Mansfield, TX, Frank Taylor of Spring, TX, and Reginald Taylor (Daniell) of Dickinson, TX; and his grandchildren who called him “GRAMPY’ DeVonte C. Taylor, II, Mary Aelise Taylor, Aiden Payne, Nora Payne, Traevion Ware, Dominic Taylor, Alexandra Taylor, Christian Scott, Jr., Camielle Scott, and Nasir A. Taylor; aunts: Annie Lou Ellis, Irma Jean Moody, Dorethea Mack, and Catherine Turner; and special friend, Vicki Sheldon. He leaves to cherish his memories a host of nieces, nephews and other family members and friends.
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