JT Taylor

JT Taylor of Columbia, passed away on 4/1/2025 after a courageous fight with glioblastoma. His many years on the golf course prepared him for this final drive to the 18th hole, since he knew the clubhouse would be the next stop. Frequently his golfing buddies & him would gather to share their accomplishments on the course, their best shot, and embellish the stories in preparation for their next outing.

JT was born July 21, 1946, to Elmo and Betty (Cornelius) Taylor. JT was raised near McBaine, across from the famous Burr Oak Tree. He attended Rockbridge Elementary & Hickman High School. Upon graduating from high school in 1964, he attended the University of Missouri & started working for the US Post Office, followed by enrolling in the Missouri Highway Patrol Academy & eventually joining Troop F. JT left the Highway Patrol Division to become an agent for the Division of Liquor Control and eventually became Chief of Enforcement, retiring in 2002. JT served his country for 16 years as a member of the National Guard. He was a long time member of the Elks, Eagles and the Three Dollar Golf Club.

He loved sports, hunting, fishing, and motorcycle riding. He excelled in playing baseball, then continued playing softball for the “Good Ole Boys” for over 30 yrs, while bowling twice a week for the men’s league in the off season. As a Missouri Tigers football fan, JT could be heard yelling from the stand about any calls he disagreed with. He enjoyed riding his Honda Gold Wing all over the USA with his buddies. Following Debbie’s retirement, as Missouri’s winter months approached, they traveled to Texas to escape the cold. They loved it so much, they ended up purchasing a second home in Texas to spend their time relaxing, dancing, and of course, playing golf.

JT is survived by his wife Deborah (Lasley) Taylor of 40 years, sons Bryan (Laura) of Kansas City, KS, John of Boonville, MO and daughter Amy Aggeler (Marvin) of Columbia, MO. Grandchildren include Cari (Joey) Novak of Texarkana, TX, Sophia Shively and Hayden Gott of Columbia, MO and one great grandchild Harper Novak. His parents preceded him in death, as well as his sister Trish (Taylor) Moreau, who is survived by Leigh Moreau. In addition to his immediate family, his many extended family members, friends and neighbors, JT will be especially remembered for his wittiness & sense of humor. He loved his family, his extensive network of friends, especially those who enjoyed golf as much as he did. Golf was more than a hobby for JT, it was his passion & we hope that heaven has a well-manicured course with long fairways free of sand traps awaiting him.

A celebration of life will be held on Monday, April 7 at Midway Locust Grove Church. Visitation will be 10:00-11:30. Funeral service at 11:30. Immediately following will be a graveside service at Memorial Park Cemetery. Friends and family are encouraged to wear golf attire or MO Tiger sportswear in memory of JT.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed to Midway Locust Grove Church.

Condolences and fond memories can be shared www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetery.com