High school was great because of best friends like Jo❤️

August 2020
We all know it was Jo that said something absolutely hilarious!!♥️💔

Cataloochee, NC 2010

 Jo and I after her black diamond run.

Jo and me playing in jazz band together in April 1984.  We sure shared a lot of laughs over our high school years.

So sad to see this.😢😢
She was one of the first people to welcome me to the ATL area when I moved there in 2005 along with Jay Voss(also RIP😢)
She was always kind and appreciative of things I did with her and when she started making her delectable treats I was one of her guinea pigs for new flavors.
She will be missed.
Please if anyone is going to any service give my Dawn and Lorelei’s condolences to the family.

January 2025. Jo came over to ride out the snow with us. She had so much fun building her squirrel. She loved the snow!

I remember Joe as a nature loving, down to earth woman.  We went to an apple festival a few years back. She was so fun and easy going.
She would always light up the room when we had our Lassiter get togethers. I know she must be at peace with all her animals up in heaven!

Jo was one of the most talented musicians I have ever met. She played the trumpet effortlessly. May she rest in peace.

If you’re listening, Jo, please know that I miss you. Sure, we haven’t talked for years, but I’ve thought of you often, keeping your spirit alive in my heart. 

I never told you, probably because I was too proud or embarrassed, how much you meant to me. Sitting next to you in the trumpet section throughout middle and high school, I marveled at your affable manner and effortless musicianship. You made everything look and sound easy. I tried relentlessly to keep up but couldn't. Only later did I learn that I couldn't replicate what was quintessentially yours. That sound of yours, Jo. Man, liquid gold! Warm. Delicious. Part laughter, part heartache. I hear it now.  

If you have a moment, say hi to my parents. Like you, they loved music and animals and, probably without knowing it, crossed paths with you at the vet’s. Maybe we can play duets again.

Dear [Family / Friends of Jo],

I was deeply saddened to learn of Jo’s passing. I had the privilege of serving as her high school band director at Lassiter High School for four formative years, and during that time she left an indelible mark on both our program and on me personally.

Jo was an exceptional trumpeter and a cornerstone of the Lassiter marching, concert, and jazz bands. As an All-State musician, she stood among the finest players in the state of Georgia, but beyond her talent, she was defined by her work ethic, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Jo gave her absolute best in everything she pursued, and her dedication set a standard for those around her.

I remain profoundly grateful for her significant contributions during the early years of what has become a storied band program. Her musical excellence and spirit helped shape our foundation, and her legacy continues to resonate.

Rest peacefully, Jo. My life — and the lives of so many others — is richer for having known you.

With deepest sympathy,

Alfred Lee Watkins

I remember Jo from Lassiter High School and the band.  As much as anyone I have known, she was a true individual and one of a kind.  After high school, we worked in the same general area in Marietta.  We stayed in touch for years.  However, as often happens, we lost touch.  I am so sorry to hear this information.  I know she will be remembered and missed by many.

She was my first real friend in Marietta when we moved there. I met her in 9th grade and we played trumpets together, experienced 'one time at Band Camp' memories, played video games (Galaga and Centipede) at the corner store bearing the racist name. In my heart, she is held most dear as a true friend. I am sad to know she is gone. God rest her soul.

OBITUARY

Josephine "Jo" Tai Taylor

September 30, 1967 – January 4, 2026

H.M. Patterson & Son-Canton Hill Chapel

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services