James W. Taylor

James W. Taylor (“J.T.” or “Jimmy”) of Dayton, Ohio, transitioned peacefully into eternal rest at the Dayton VA Medical Center on June 1, 2021 at the age of 66. Born in Dayton on January 10, 1955, to Myrtle E. Champion (Taylor) and the late Fred H. Taylor, James was one of seven children. He graduated from Nettie Lee Roth High School shortly before joining the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War, where he served in active duty as an airplane mechanic for 2 years before being honorably discharged. Following his service, James worked for the United States Veteran Affairs Department and dedicated several years of his life helping to maintain the grounds at the Dayton VA Medical Center. Later, James decided to further his education at Miami-Jacobs Career College, where he graduated with a certificate in massage therapy and developed a life-long passion for health and wellness.

James met his beloved wife and soulmate Martha later in life, and they were married in 2017. James was Martha’s whole world, and she was his. They were members of Mosaic Church in Beavercreek, Ohio, and loved volunteering on the Hospitality Team as greeters on Sunday mornings. James and Martha bonded deeply over their shared love of church, personal wellness, and growth. They loved spending time together; especially attending concerts, watching movies, and exercising at the gym.

James left a positive impact on all the lives that he touched, and he will be deeply missed. He had the ability to make everyone he met know that they were seen, valued, and loved. James is survived by his wife Martha; children Michael (Amanda) Austin, Steve Austin, Deon Cash, and James Taylor; stepsons Michael (Holly) Haarmeyer and Evan (Jamie) Haarmeyer; grandchildren Lyla Austin, Jack Austin, Josiah Austin, Celeste Austin, Lillian Austin, and Sylvia Austin; mother Myrtle Champion; brothers Fred (Racine) Taylor, and Richard (Tonya) Taylor, sisters Cassine Walker, Jesse Jackson-Taylor, and Gwen (Gregory) Cooper; and a host of nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father Fred H. Taylor, stepfather Randolph Champion, brother Stanley Taylor, and son Brandon E. Taylor.

If desired, memorial contributions may be given to the funeral home to offset expenses. 

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