Jeff baptized my husband in 2002 while serving a mission in Idaho.  He attended our temple sealing in 2003. We think of him often. He truly means the world to us!! We are heartbroken to learn of his passing. 
Brandon & Regina Harkness

To Jeff,
I'm still thinking about you everyday bro.  You're my best friend and I've come to realize that I will never have a friend like you again and want to thank you, again, for the many years of true friendship you gave to me. I was watching some clips of a concert we went to in San Diego and it made me sad to know that was one of the last things we did together, but happy that we were experiencing life to the fullest up until the day you passed on.  Talk to you later Jeff.  Love Jeff :)

Dearest Tait Family,
My memories of Jeff were always positive and somewhat naive.  Hearing the news of Jeff's passing was a brutal awakening of how much reality hurts.  I knew Jeff to be the most uplifting and light-hearted person.  His outlook on life should be cherished in order to overcome this pain of losing such an influential person.  He will always be remembered and loved by all he knew.
All my love,
Denise

When we went to Disneyland, on splash mountain, how we got wet, that was fun.  You got soaked!  Do you remember how I laughed!!?  I was soaked too, you laughed too.  And do you remember at Sea World?  On that roller coaster?  You were soaked on that one too, even more than on Splash Mountain!  And do you remember when you told Wyatt and me those jokes when you sat in the Jacuzzi, that was funny, Wyatt and I both laughed.  In Hawaii, it was so fun with you, especially when we saw that ship!  I love the pictures that we got.  You are the funnest and funniest.  I love you and miss you.  Taylor

Two bright blue eyes upon you
Expectant and anticipating
Full of hope, full of potential
Running forward, awaiting

For the next time she'd hear your voice
Fed by the sound of your laugh
A smile to match yours when heard
Tears in hearing she'd heard the last

Walking forward, so much still ahead
School years, struggles and tears
Accomplishments and accolades 
Taking on the world and over coming fears

Broken hearts and breaking a few
Finding one to always hold on to
White dress and promises made
In time, new little eyes sparkling blue

All along, yearning to share it with you
Wishing you'd not gone
Wanting to show and tell you
Oh, If only you'd held on

But despite what has happened
You'll still be part of all she'll do
Carried in her heart
She will forever hold on to you


We all will.  
My best friend of so many years. The memories are endless. Jeff - I see your face everyday shining through Taylor's. She looks like you, she laughs like you, she stands like you, she acts like you. Guess that's one of the miracles of having children - part of you lives on. 

Thank you for the years of your life that you shared with me -- and for the part of you that I get to keep. Please know how loved you were and are. No words really suffice.

To Jeff and Family...

Jeff, I didn't know you well but the time we met was with Sarah and Jason. I am Sarah's mom. We were out for a fun night and you were dancing around. I remembering seeing you enjoying the music and being with your friends and brother and how much you the two of you looked alike..you were such a free spirit and good soul...it was a good night! I wish I could have gotten to know you more! 

I know that Jason and Sarah loved you very much and have amazing memories of you which is something that can never be taken away and that they will hold near and dear to their hearts..thank you for that! 

This is to your Mom Denise from a mom...we give our children unconditional love, we nurture and guide them the best we can! We always forgive, love and support with all our hearts, thats what moms do!! I do not have a son but know that a love between a mother and son is something special! Jeff, I know you gave her all those special moments and more because that's what's sons do! Her memories of you will be cherished forever!

To Jason... a brother shares childhood memories and dreams. A brother is nice growing up with someone to lean on, someone to count on, to look up to and someone to tell on ;-) Just remember every man dies and every man lives and your brother lived and will continue to live in your heart and memories!

Love Sarah's Mom!!

Dear Tait Family,
I think of your family daily and pray that you are comforted by our Heavenly Father. I came to know and appreciate Jeff over the last few years as he would visit our home with (our) Jeff. He was kind, funny, sensitive, handsome and interested in those around him. He loved you and always updated us on how his family was doing. Jeff was here last December for (my) Jeff's birthday dinner. I had my Christmas tree up in the living room and I noticed Jeff in the room, all by himself looking at the tree...I have often wondered what he was thinking. When he joined the rest of the group in the den he made it a point to tell me how much he liked the tree. I mentioned this to (my) Jeff and he told me that Jeff was very artistic and really appreciated nature and things of beauty. What a sweet and sensitive soul lived behind that beautiful smile. Watching the two Jeffs together was a thing of joy for me. I know our boys struggled through high school but they always had each other and they shared a speical bond that few people are lucky enough to find. I will miss Jeff.
Kindest thoughts, 
Nancy Kristoffersen

Jeff,

I want to tell you how thankful I am that you were part of my son's life. You are truly a blessing. You never judged him and excepted him for who he was from the begining. I didnt understand the sense of humor you both displayed at times, but I do now. I know we had a few differences about what was best for my son Jeff and only now do I really understand how much you cared about him. I see now you wanted him to be as happy as much as I did. I am glad we both looked past those differences and enjoyed some good times the last few years. You are truly an example of a good friend. Kind, caring, sensitive and compassionate. Your relationship with Jeff is a true example of an unconditional friendship. My son Jeff was lucky to have you in his life. I will always remember watching you and Jeff at football practices with your father. I enjoyed those moments so much and will never forget them. You were an amazing athlete. Later on as you and Jeff were older, I saw how creative you were with the beautiful video you produced for Jeff and Steff on your trip to Hawaii.  Simply Awesome. I know Jeff  and Steff will treasure it forever. My family and I will miss you very much and we will never forget you or your beautiful smile. It is my prayer that you have found peace now and realize the joy you have given to others. God bless you. I know we will see each other again.  

Jeff's Dad

Truly great friends are hard to find, difficult to say goodbye to, and impossible to forget.

Jeff,

Just a few short years with you in my life and it’s been changed forever. 

I’ve really realized that even more so in these past few weeks. It’s been hard not having you around, but when I am at my saddest it’s my memories of you and all the good times you me and Jason had that somehow sweep in and lighten the mood, you where always good at that…

You were always good at everything, you and Jas, you were so much alike, an unstoppable team, superior at anything you guys decided to do. So many times I would sit watching you two wondering how the things you pulled off and got away with were even humanly possible, even your 4 year old daughter braved the Kipu rope swing before me! Guess you were right… it’s those Tait genes. And I fell in love with all you Tait’s, I am so grateful for everything you each have brought to my life.

I miss you Jeff, I can’t even put into words just how much. Your absence has left a void where so much happiness used to be, I know time will pass and the pain will fade, but my memories of you will stay vibrant and be with me each day. Its hard to believe that you are gone, that I wont come home and find you on the couch with every ounce of junk food & peanut butter our house contains in your lap, that I wont see you and Jason together, hear your silly stories, your laughter, your good advice or fall victim to your pranks, I wont have these things for a long long time, that will be one of the worst parts. You’re an irreplaceable friend, the big brother I never had.

In my heart and the hearts of all those who loved you (and there is a lot) you will forever live on and be with us always. I know this is just the beginning of missing you and wishing you were here for things,I will continue to do that everyday until I am old and gray and until we someday meet again.

Until then my friend….

all my love.

Jeff and Jeff.  There goes Jeff and Jeff again.  What are Jeff and Jeff up to now?  
On the first day of class in my 8th grade year I met Jeff Tait.  Jeff became my closest friend.  It didn’t take long for Jeff and I to become friends.  The first week of school I think we said all of ten words to each other.  Then on the first Sunday after school started I began going to the local LDS church.  Having never really fit in at my previous LDS church I had little hopes for this one being anything special.  Oh how I was wrong.
When I walked into the first class of kids my age I looked up and staring directly at me was Jeff.  This is not an exaggeration, we instantly looked at each and smiled with the same thought, “I didn’t know you were Mormon?!”  From that day forward we began to hang out and do what kids do. Personally, I like to think that the things Jeff and I did were not your everyday, run-of-the-mill activities that kids do.  I want to share some of those experiences with those who choose to continue reading.  The following are what I could remember by just thinking back and trying to recall as much stuff as possible.  I view these stories as gifts that Jeff gave to me.  I cherish them.  Some are kind of boring, but there special to me, and I sure Jeff would agree that he loves these memories too.
San Clemente was our world.  Jeff and I were just 13 years old with mountain bikes and energy to burn.  When the summer between 8th grade and 9th grade came I never knew how much fun a summer could be.  The day wouldn’t start until around ten or eleven o’clock because we were up much to late playing Twisted metal on the Playstation.  And those video game battles would get intense.  Other than baseball, video games were the only arena where I could be Jeff’s equal in competition.  He was so damn good at everything!  But, I need to give credit where credits due, he was the better Twisted Metal player.  Anyways, once we would get up it was straight to the kitchen for donuts, where he would always make fun of me for going for the maple bar.  Jeff just didn’t understand how a young man would not first go after the chocolate round. He was genuinely baffled by my choice.  
After breakfast we would get on our bikes go explore the town.  We went to more places in San Clemente on our bikes than probably any person, ever.  It was these day long trips from north Jeff’s house all the way down to Calafia beach that the “dares” began.  Simple dares from “Hey, go talk to that girl,” to more dramatic dares, such as “Lets hi-jack a golf cart at the San Clemente Municipal golf course.”  Jeff always pushed or “dared” me to do more.  Not because he was trying to push me passed my limits, but because he knew I was capable of more.   Never in my life has someone in my life pushed me like Jeff did, and when I would do better than I thought I could Jeff was right there to congratulate me, “I knew you had it in you!” I would be less of a man today if Jeff had not been there to push me to do better.  I still push myself to do better so that Jeff will be proud.
Freshman football at San Clemente High School never had a better wide receiver than Jeffrey William Tait. Period.  Pro football players would be jealous of how good his hands were.  I remember during practice I was on the sidelines watching Jeff play receiver during a drill that was supposed to teach our defensive back how to stay on a receiver properly.  During the entire practice the DB’s couldn’t once stop Jeff from catching the ball.  They would hit Jeff while he was in the air and Jeff would still come up with the ball.  He was the man.
Jeff and I got our drivers licenses at the same time.  I’m bringing this up because I would use our drivers licenses as proof of our “bromance.”  Our numbers were the exact same all the way until the last number.  I was Bxxxxx83 and Jeff was Bxxxxx84.  We didn’t realize this amazing fact until about three years ago when I was typing something in on the computer and Jeff looked at me thinking I was making a joke.  
“That’s not your number?”  Jeff said.  
“Yeah it is.” 
“Let me see that…This is awesome!”  
I still laugh at how excited he was by this.
I’ve come to the realization that I have way to many stories to write so I’m just going to share, quickly, some of the activities Jeff and  I shared just in the last year, because I want to show you how much he enjoyed life.
1) System of a Down concert in Chula Vista.
2) Snowboarding in Big Bear.
3) Several Movies.
4) Sushi, several times.  
5) Photographing my R/C truck to make it look like a real truck in action and try to fool people with the pictures that I actually had a $100,000.00 race truck.
6) Played golf at the following places.  Pala Mesa, Links at Summerly, Eagle Glen, Trilogy at Glen Ivy, Oak Quarry, San Clemente Municipal, Green River, Palm Desert.
7) Road ATV’s.
8) Bowling.
9) Video games, Call of Duty.  He was good.  =)
10) Karaoke at Don Joses.  We did a duet of “Lost that Loving Feeling” by the Righteous brother.  I’m not bragging, but the entire restaurant applauded because of how funny our performance was.
11) Dance at some club somewhere.
12) UFC fight nights.
13) Off road racing with my truck.
14) Sit on my patio and just talk about whatever.  I’ll miss talking to Jeff.  
I love Jeff.  He is my closest friend.  I never knew how much I could hurt until Jeff passed on.  I only hurt this much because Jeff is that special.  I think about him every day.  I was lucky to have a friend like Jeff.  
I love you Jeff.

Jeff,
 what's up bro. I miss you man. Not too many minutes can pass through my day without thinking about you. Sometimes I just sit back, and talk to you. I hear things on the radio, or that people say, and laugh and think how much you would like to hear it too. You touched a lot of people while you were here man. Sometimes I get upset, or angry. Wondering why? Then I think about all the times we had together. My whole life is filled with the best memories anyone could ask for. To have someone like you always looking out for me is something no one can ever understand. You left me a spot very close where I can go be alone and talk with you. Sometimes it hurts. But always, in the end, I walk away with a smile on my face. You'll always know how much you meant to me. I idolized you in everything you did. And still can't comprehend how you did most of it. But i'll always strive to be like you. You'll be in my heart every day man. Love you Jeff. Miss you so much. 
Your lil bro.
Jason

Dear Tait Family,
I’m sorry for your loss and I feel that we’ve all lost a bright star in our lives.  I got the opportunity to get to know Jeff through one of his closest friends, Jeff Woolston.  From the moment I met him, he was the type of person who could light up a room with a smile.  Over the years of planned weekends and surprise visits, he became family.  I'll never forget the numerous times he'd creep around corners to scare me or call me a "temptress" for filling up the bowl of peanut butter M&Ms. He was a free-spirited, kindhearted, intelligent, adventurous man and his memorable qualities live on through his beautiful daughter Taylor. It was easy to gravitate towards his light-hearted demeanor and I was fortunate to have him in my life for many years.  To keep his spirit alive in all of us, share memorable moments with friends and family. 
Love,
Stefny

Dear Tait Family,   We were so heart broken to hear about Jeff. The memories I have of Jeff and your family are all very happy.  Even though I was young I remember having such a blast every time we were together. I remember Jeff's charming personality and how he would light up the room when he walked in. He had such an amazing smile that would absolutely melt your heart. He was always making everyone laugh and he had such a sweet spirit about him.  I feel absolutely blessed to have known Jeff . The Tait family will always be a part of our lives and we are forever grateful to have such wonderful friends. We love you all so very much. May the Lord bless you during this time of need.

Dear Tait Family,
We were so sad to hear about Jeff.  I will always cherish the happy memories we had growing up with Jeff and your family.   Whether it was our Disneyland trips, days at the beach or just hanging out, Jeff was always such a joy to be around.  His smile and sense of humor were contagious.  He was always so kind to us!  You can't help but think of Jeff when you look at little Taylor, she has his beautiful eyes and smile.  What a gift to have around to remind you of him.  He was lucky to have such a wonderful family.  Your family has always meant the world to us.  Our prayers will be with all of you during this difficult time.  
Love,
Kasey & Jackie (Bowen) Chesnut

Tait Family,
We are thinking of you during this difficult time and praying that you will find comfort and peace.  Jeff was a beautiful, bright, talented person full of so much light.  We will always remember the wonderful memories we have of him and of your loving family.  You are all dear to us.
Love,
Larry & Anne Bowen & Family

Dearest Denise, Joe, Greg and Jason,
The Foltz family loves you and we are praying for you during this difficult time of loss of Jeff.  May you take comfort in the faith that one day you will all be together throughout eternity.  Hold onto each other, the memories you share with Jeff and dear friends who care and are here for you.
Love, Susan and Mert Foltz and Family

Tait Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time of sorrow. Jeff's Service was very touching, he was a wonderful young man! I'm sorry I wasn't able to give you a hug afterwards, or attend the open house. We have many great memories of your family!
Love, Anne & Mike Allen

OBITUARY

Jeffrey William Tait

13 November, 1981 – 17 July, 2011

Eternal Hills Mortuary & Crematory at Eternal Hills Memorial Park

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