James H. Taylor

James H. “Jim” Taylor died peacefully on February 23, 2013, surrounded by family and close friends. Born in Middletown, NY in 1935, he grew up in East Orange, NJ, graduating from C.J. Scott High as class salutatorian and winning the Bamberger Medal for top scholar-athlete in the city. He earned his B.A. from DePauw University where he was a member of Delta Chi fraternity.

After seven years in the Navy as one of the Nation’s first Aerial Navigator and Tactical Coordinators in antisubmarine warfare, he was honorably discharged as a full Lieutenant.

He began his banking career with Barnett Banks and was president of several of their banks. He transferred his commercial banking skills into economic development and small business financing, first with the city, and ending his career as Sr. VP of Florida First Capital Finance Corp.

Jim was an active member of his church and many community organizations including serving as chair of Easter Seals drive, Big Brothers, Jacksonville Zoological Society, Jacksonville Urban League, WJCT Advisory board, and Ye Mystic Revellers

His avocation was singing; he had a God-given baritone voice which he used in the Good Shepherd choir and Jacksonville Symphony Chorus.

He is survived by his wife, Dale Orr Taylor; son Jerome Thompson Taylor (Kendall); daughters Susan T. Watson and Glenn T. Stanley (Craig); grandchildren Taylor and Katherine Watson and Griffin and Hunter Stanley ; brothers Edwin “Ted” Taylor (Louise) and Thomas Taylor (Karon) and brother- in – law Jerome “Jerry” Orr

A memorial service will be held Thursday, February 28 at 5:30 PM at the Church of the Good Shepherd, 1100 Stockton St, Jacksonville, FL 32204.

Jim requested that no flowers be sent, but that donations be made to the Music Fund at the Church of the Good Shepherd.

Hardage-Giddens Funeral Home 5753 Blanding Blvd. has been entrusted with arrangements.

Messages of condolence may be left at www.hardage-giddensblanding.com