J Mark Jokepa Kaylor

J. Mark Kaylor was born in Riverside, California, to his parents, Faith and Joseph Kaylor. Shortly after, he was raised in Pālolo, Hawai‘i and later moved to Wai’anae where he spent his teenage years, graduating from Wai’anae High School in 1981.

Mark spent nearly 30 years in Connecticut, where he built lasting friendships with people who became more than friends—they became his ohana. He spent the last 10 years of his life working in Hotel Management, traveling throughout the United States for work and touching the lives of countless people along the way.

Mark was a loving, caring, and dedicated man whose presence will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him. His contagious laugh could light up a room, and his soul was expressed through his love of music, cooking galore, and, most importantly, helping others.

One of the ways Mark made a lasting difference was through his gift as a hairdresser. He used his talent not only to make people feel good about themselves, but also to give back to those in need. He helped countless people through his work, including supporting the American Cancer Society. He generously donated his time and skills and helped raise money for the organization, giving comfort and dignity to people during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.

Mark gave his Hawaiian love, kindness, and aloha freely to everyone he met. He gave so much of himself to others and made many sacrifices throughout his life in an effort to provide, support, and care for the people he loved. Those sacrifices were not always easy and, at times, deeply impacted those closest to him—especially his family. Yet his heart was always in giving and doing what he believed was best for the people around him.

His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, the people he helped, the friendships he built, and the love he gave so freely. His spirit of aloha, generosity, and compassion will remain with all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mark is survived by his daughter, Makenzi Kaylor, and his grandson, Makai Ikaika, who were an important part of his life and legacy.

He is also survived by many beloved family members and friends who will continue to cherish his memory, honor his spirit, and carry his aloha forward.

In keeping with Mark’s wishes, his ashes will be spread back home in Hawaii surrounded by family and the place that helped shape the man he became.

Until we meet again, may his laughter, his music, his kindness, his cooking, and his aloha live on in all of us.