James Harold Taylor

James H. Taylor (JT), beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather passed away March 7, 2022.  During his career, JT was an International Operations and Business Development Executive, who worked for Fortune 500 companies including Dow Chemical.  He and his family lived oversees in South America and the Bahamas for several years.  They ultimately returned to Florida, leaving their Midwest roots behind.  Even with his professional successes, he was most proud of the work he did away from the office and during retirement where he positively impacted and taught so many others.  His work oversees was often shrouded in mystery, and his nickname “Joe Matriach” perhaps hinted at a secret career, one that showcased JT’s suave “man about town” reputation.

Born January 2, 1933, in St. Paul, MN, JT grew up roaming the woods surrounding Fort Snelling and swimming in the Mississippi River.  His love of the outdoors and environment impacted how he lived his life.  Dog paddling in the river while trying to keep up with his older brothers led to his love of swimming and success in the pool.  He swam competitively in high school, the Navy, and at the University of Minnesota, being named Athlete of the Year, and winning NCAA championships.  His love of swimming never left him, and he competed with the Gold Coast US Masters Team, gaining Top Ten National and World Championship rankings.  At the University of Minnesota, he was president of the Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and named “Big Man on Campus”.   It was at the University of Minnesota where he met the love of his life, Ann and they were married for 62 years.   He also studied at the University of Madrid which led to a lifelong love of Latin America, and his fluency in Spanish and Portuguese.  JT was a graduate of Stanford University Graduate School Program for Executive Management.

“Coach JT” shared his love of swimming with many others, starting his coaching career with his son and his teammates, US Masters Swimmers at the University of Miami, and finally at St. Edwards School in Vero Beach.  He also found great joy and fulfillment volunteering for Indian River Habitat for Humanity where he became a crew leader.  Anything built by JT was built to last and his gifts of craftmanship remain with us, from arbors, to pottingbenches, a 2-stall barn, and the famous Taylor geese that swim in a pool of light during the holidays.

JT was a man of faith and loved God, his church, his family, and friends.  He served as an elder at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach and sang in the church choir where his deep voice made earned him the nickname “basso profundo”.  He sang with the Treasure Coast Chorale, and performed with the Vero Beach Community Theater, playing the role of the lead police officer in “Pirates of Penzance”.

While his many accomplishments professionally and personally are notable, it was JT’s compassion, intellect, and pride in how he lived his life that defined him. He searched for adventure and always looked for the opportunity to explore new places and try new things.  He always expected the best of himself and others.  His reminders to “tuck in your shirt” or “wallet, watch and keys” were gentle nudges to be ready, look sharp, and make the most of any opportunity.   JT made sure his family lived a life of adventure, filled with love and laughter.  At any moment he would come in and scoop them up for a road trip with the top down, leaving a trail of dust behind.  His greatest joy was his taking care of his family and supporting and celebrating their successes.

JT is now swimming in heaven with the Lord and teaching the angels new stroke techniques with his furry warrior Mimosa by his side.  He is survived by his wife Ann L. Taylor, his children Kimberly Taylor Locey (Bernard) and Jayme Taylor (Michele); grandchildren Brent Taylor Locey (Aubrey), and Skyelar and Leyton Taylor; great grandson Brent Taylor Locey Jr. (JR), and his brothers Arthur and Robert Taylor.

A private memorial service will be held on Saturday March 19 at 2:00 pm at First Presbyterian Church of Vero Beach.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Indian River Habitat for Humanity in his memory.

Arrangements are by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach.