Obituary of Thomas "Tom" J. Taylor

Thomas Jefferson Taylor
August 19, 1939 – February 11, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Thomas Jefferson Taylor. Tom was born on August 19, 1939, in Dearborn, Michigan, and passed away peacefully on February 11, 2025, in Woodhaven, Michigan, with his loving wife, Carol (Tackett), by his side. He was 85 years old.

Tom was a beloved husband, father, papaw, brother, uncle and friend. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas Taylor and Faye Emerick. He leaves behind a devoted family who will forever cherish his memory, including his wife of 51 years, Carol; his daughter, Sandy (Dave) Wisniewski; his loving grandson, Brandon Harper; and his great-grandchildren, Noah and Raelynn. He is also survived by his sisters, Barbara (the late Tommy Skelton) and Sarah (Mark Coppersmith), as well as many nieces and nephews who will forever hold onto his memory.

Tom had a zest for life that was evident in his many interests and talents. Throughout his life, he worked various jobs, including store owner, supervisor at General Motors, Real Estate and HUD Contractor. A gifted storyteller, Tom always had a tale to share. He loved hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, traveling, driving, poker, casinos, playing cards, car repair, home building, the stock market, horseshoes, gardening, bird watching and handyman work. He may have even been a bit of a collector – or, as some might say, a hoarder of things. He once proudly said he was a “keen gambler”, having won an entry and an all-expenses-paid trip to the World Series of Poker Tournament in Las Vegas. 

Above all, Tom cherished his time with his grandson and great-grandchildren, always offering wisdom, laughter, and most of all, love. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Friends and family are invited to pay their respects during visitation on Tuesday, February 18, 2025 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A service to honor Tom’s life will be held on Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. Interment will take place at The Oaks Mausoleum at Michigan Memorial Cemetery.