The angels rejoiced as James (Jim) Edward Taylor was called home to Heaven’s glorious gates to meet his Lord and savior on Sunday, August 23, 2026. Jim was surrounded by his loving family as he passed peacefully at the blessed age of 88.
A loving husband and father, pastor, grandfather, “Papa”, and great-grandfather Jim had a God-given gift for welcoming others, a beautiful voice for gospel music, a heart that offered forgiveness first, and a calling to spread his testimony to lead others to faith. He never missed an opportunity to let you know how loved you were while sharing the promises of Heaven.
“Oh what a day it will be…” he would sing, as he shared salvation with everyone he met, “when we all are reunited in glory.”
Born on May 15, 1938 to Marshall Taylor and Esta Lee Taylor, Jim was one of four siblings, Dale, Jeanie and Jack. He moved with his family from Lavaca, Arkansas to Caruthers, California where he met Janice, who would become his loving wife of more than 70 years. Together they built a beautiful family and lasting legacy of service in leading the Fresno Rescue Mission, Craycroft Youth Center, and numerous ministries.
Jim had a playful soul, a witty mind, a giving heart and an endless sweet tooth. His love for his wife Janice and love of his family will be his greatest legacy. Jim is survived by his wife Janice Taylor, his siblings Jack, Jeanie and their families, his daughters Jamie, Monica and Kimberlee, his grandchildren Janice, Dustin, Johnny, Shelby, Wendy, Aaron, Daniel, Billy, Blake, Tyler, Heather, Hannah, Kinsley, and Hunter and his great-grandchildren, Madison, Marshall, Adelaide, Austin, Graysen, Skylar, Everett, Autumnlynn, Audrey, Jameson, Presley, Amelia, Brea, Brynn and Cooper.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, daughters Brenda and Kimberly and his brother Dale who no doubt welcomed him with open arms to the promised land. Thanks to all who have helped care for Jim, shared a memory and kind words. “May we thank God for his forgiveness, walk in his love and grace, and live a life that would please him.” In loving memory of Jim, serve others, share the love of Jesus at every opportunity – and enjoy some ice cream.
A celebration of his remarkable life will be held on September 1, 2026 at:
Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home located at:
836 E. Nees Avenue, Fresno CA, 93720
10am – Viewing
11am – Service
The service will be followed by a graveside burial at Fresno Memorial Gardens 175 S. Cornelia Ave, Fresno, CA 93706, and a reception at Whitehurst Funeral Home.
