In Memoriam: Starkville’s Everywhere Man ‘Lived Large, Laughed Large and Loved Large’

Chris Taylor: A Life Well Lived

Chris Taylor, a well-known community leader and social activist from Starkville, passed away at the age of 69. Taylor, an Army veteran, dedicated his life to serving his community, making his mark as an unfailing presence in a number of key organizations. He was renowned for living life on his own terms, in a manner that was both impactful and inspirational.

A Pillar of the Community

After logging nearly 31 years of military service, including deployments in Kosovo and Afghanistan, Taylor opted for retirement in 2006 as a command sergeant major. He then returned to his hometown of Starkville with the intention of giving back to the community that had raised him. A lifelong member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), Taylor also served as the president of the Oktibbeha County chapter from 2012 to 2019.

His work extended beyond the NAACP. Taylor was a board member of Starkville’s Bridges Out of Poverty and active in the Unity Park committee, a park established to honor those who played prominent roles in civil rights. Taylor also involved himself with the American Red Cross and the American Legion Post 240.

An Unforgettable Spirit

Taylor was a constant and welcome presence in the community. He was described as “… just a wonderful representative of the community and a great role model for kids through his status as an Army veteran… He was so supportive of Starkville, an upbeat, positive person and a fabulous member of our community.” Taylor’s rapport with people was often noted, as his deep-seated love for his community translated seamlessly into the connections he formed with its residents.

Taylor’s legacy wasn’t restricted to his public contributions. He was known to be a doting father and grandfather who savored family time. His love of travel, kindled by his time in the Army, remained a predominant aspect of his life even post-retirement. From a small town in Oktibbeha County, Taylor’s life journey took him across the globe, adding breadth and depth to his life experiences.

Leaving a Lasting Impression

Taylor’s passing serves as both a reminder of his unwavering dedication to community service and the immense void his departure creates. The indelible mark he made on Starkville, through both his roles as a public servant and a beloved community member, will not be forgotten. His life, one of large living, loud laughter, and copious love, remains an inspiration to all.

The phrase, “He lived large, laughed large and loved large,” seems to encapsulate Taylor’s approach to life perfectly. His life story is a testament to the fact that one can indeed live life on one’s own terms while still remaining unfailingly dedicated to the betterment of the community. It is in this spirit that Starkville will remember Chris Taylor.