Erwin W. Taylor

Erwin Taylor, a beloved resident of Colyell, Louisiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Friday, September 12, 2025, at the age of 85. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Erwin was a long-time and faithful member of Colyell Baptist Church. He spent his career as a skilled millwright, retiring as a Maintenance Superintendent—a role he earned through hard work and dedication. Erwin had a deep love for the simple joys of life. He was a proud cattleman, and his days often revolved around caring for his land and animals. He was happiest in the stands at his son and grandsons’ baseball games, cooking meals for his family, and spending time with those he cherished most. Erwin believed music wasn’t worth listening to unless it was loud—and that philosophy carried over into how he lived: full of energy, love, and passion for life. He is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Evelle Watts Taylor; daughters, Sibyl Heath (Randall), Andrea Zeigler (Ansel “Skip”); son, Brent Taylor (Cathy); and 10 grandchildren: Taylor Heath (Ashley), Lauren Smith (Adam), Trent Acosta, Trey Zeigler, Amanda Melancon (Chase), Amber Little, Austin Taylor (Shelbi), Madison Taylor, Samantha Mulina, and Taylor Mulina. He also leaves behind 17 great-grandchildren—and one on the way—as well as his sister, Martha “Mot” Johnson and sisters-in-law, Mary Taylor and Doris Taylor. Erwin was preceded in death by his parents, Ollie and Elizabeth Taylor; brothers: infant O.V., Huey Taylor (Amy), Isiah "Bear" Taylor (Joyce), William "Billy" Taylor, Johnny "Boo" Taylor (Louise) and Roosevelt Taylor; sisters: Argilee Averett (Will), Winnona Watts (Ervin), Albertine McConathy (Jay), Dorothy Jane Watts (Louellen "Lou"), and Ellen Kleinpeter (John); and brother-in-law, Billy Johnson. Erwin Taylor’s legacy of hard work, deep faith, and unwavering love for his family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Services to honor Erwin’s life will be held at Colyell Baptist Church. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and will resume on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. until the funeral service at 10:30 a.m. He will be laid to rest at Colyell Community Cemetery. Pallbearers will be, Taylor Heath, Trent Acosta, Trey Zeigler, Austin Taylor, Adam Smith, and Chase Melancon.

"It is what it is! Love, Papa"