James "JT" William Taylor

James William Taylor, Jr., affectionately known as JT, passed away on July 13, 2024, at the age of 76. Born on April 11, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, he was raised in the Gage Park neighborhood. JT proudly served his country in the United States Coast Guard during the Vietnam War, where he received a Purple Heart. After his military service, JT spent over 30 years working at Electro-Motive. JT loved music, cooking, cigars, sharing recipes, and engaging in lively conversations with friends and strangers alike.

JT is survived by his two children, Lauren (Jeff) Anderson and Alex (Paola) Taylor, and his three beloved grandchildren, Adela, Drew, and Will. JT's family was his pride and joy, and his legacy of storytelling and laughter will continue to live on through them. He was also fortunate to have an extended family who meant a great deal to him: Linda Massari, Marta Garcia, Angie Cano-Garcia and Hector Benjamin-Solis, and their children Emanuel and Santiago. Their love and companionship brought immense joy and warmth to his life.

JT was preceded in death by his parents, James and LaVerne (Chick) Taylor, brothers John Taylor and Kenny Taylor, and brother-in-law Norb Shilka. He is survived by his siblings Dianne Hofsteadter, Michael (Jan) Taylor, and Judy Shilka. 

A private funeral service will be held. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in JT's memory to K9s For Warriors, a charity close to his heart.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL