Community unity tribute gathering
The bustling community of Starkville mourns the loss of a tireless activist, devoted family man and war veteran, Chris Taylor, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 69. Known by his contemporaries as a man who “lived large, laughed large and loved large”, Mr. Taylor served his town by spearheading numerous local initiatives and remaining deeply embedded in the social fabric of Starkville.
Chris Taylor, a native of Oktibbeha County, returned to his roots after retiring from a distinctive 31-year stint in the Army. With experiences from deployment stints in Kosovo and Afghanistan under his belt, Mr. Taylor took his passion for service back to Starkville. He used his dynamic experiences and leadership skills to contribute heavily to the welfare of his fellow Starkville residents.
By stepping into his uncle’s shoes, who was instrumental in starting the Oktibbeha County chapter of the NAACP in 1969, Chris became a forerunner in the local NAACP. He served as the local chapter president for seven years. His passion for social justice was infectious and inspired many, including his lifelong friend and successor Yulanda Haddix, who reminisced about his impactful leadership, his zealous commitment to the organization, and above all, his unflagging positivity.
Chris Taylor’s unyielding commitment to his community was evident in his multifaceted roles. He served on the board of Starkville’s bridges out of poverty, as a committee member of Unity Park, and was an active member with the American Red Cross and American Legion Post 240. His endless contributions prompted Mayor Lynn Spruill to describe him as “just a wonderful representative of the community and a great role model”.
His positive energy resonated with every single person he came in contact with, enriching their lives with his wisdom, charm, and charismatic personality. His district attorney Scott Colom spoke highly of him saying, “He was just one of the best humans you could ever meet.”
Beyond his remarkable public contributions, Chris Taylor was also a dedicated family man who loved spending time with his grandchildren. Apart from his love for family, he also had a passion for exploring the globe. His adventures ranged far and wide, from serving in various continents while in the army to indulging in leisure travel post-retirement. His recent trip to Miami Beach just days before his passing serves as a stark reminder of his love for new experiences.
Chris leaves behind not just a mourning community, but a profound legacy of love, laughter, and inspiration. His life story serves as a beautiful testament to his principles, and his commitment to the things he cared for deeply: his family, his community, and justice. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the invaluable life lessons he’s left for us. Starkville would forever cherish his memories and the indelible mark he has left on the community.
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