

Born on June 2, 1952, at Perrin Air Force Base in Sherman, Texas, to Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs. J. F. Taylor, John was raised in a proud military family. His early years were shaped by a life of movement and adventure, living in Cheyenne, Wyoming—where his sister Jan was born—followed by time in Okinawa and South Carolina, before returning to San Antonio.
Growing up near Lackland Air Force Base, John often spoke fondly of the freedom and excitement of those years—riding his bike around the base, playing basketball with airmen, swimming, going to the gym, and catching movies with his friends.
His summers were spent in East Texas with his grandparents, where he made many cherished memories. He loved fishing with them and often recalled the joy of arriving and being greeted by Ginger, their golden retriever, who was just as excited to see him as he was to see her.
As he grew older, John distinguished himself as a talented multi-sport athlete, playing football, basketball, and baseball. He made history as the scorer of the first touchdown in John Jay High School’s history—an early glimpse of the determination, spirit, and competitive drive that would define his life.
As a young man, John answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska, for four years, working in intelligence intercepting Russian communications during the Cold War. Those years became some of the most cherished of his life, filled with adventure, fishing, hunting, and exploring the rugged beauty of Alaska.
After his military service, John attended Southwest Texas State University, earning a degree in Accounting. He began his career with the Internal Revenue Service before feeling called to pursue law, like so many Taylors before him. He was accepted into St. Mary’s University School of Law in San Antonio, graduating in May 1990. Licensed to practice in 1991, John dedicated the next 34 years of his life to family law, where he became known not only for his sharp mind, but also for his deep understanding of people and unwavering commitment to those he served.
John was a man of intelligence, wit, and remarkable emotional insight. He had a rare ability to make others feel seen, understood, and valued. He was not just known—he was deeply felt by everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
He was preceded in death by his father, John Fisher Taylor, whose legacy of service as a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Air Force inspired John’s own path.
He is survived by his mother, Mrs. J. F. Taylor (97); his sister, Jan Cleavie Taylor (71); and his daughter, Hannah Nicole Taylor-Jensen (26), along with many loving cousins and dear friends, the list of those who loved him was truly endless.
In his final weeks, John faced a diagnosis of stage four metastatic colon cancer with extraordinary strength, courage, and grace. He was surrounded by love, and in his final moments, he passed peacefully with his daughter, Hannah, and his cousin Ray by his side. Even then, he offered comfort and peace to those who loved him most.
In a final act of generosity, John’s eyes were donated to help restore sight to someone in need—an enduring reflection of the light he brought into the world and his unwavering willingness to give to others.
John was more than a father—he was a confidant, a safe place, a rock, and a best friend to all. The bond he shared with his daughter was profound and unbreakable, built on unconditional love, curiosity, and compassion.
Though his absence leaves an immeasurable void, his legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the love he gave, and the strength he instilled in those who knew him.
Service details are as follows: A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by a funeral service from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at Porter Loring Mortuary North on Thursday, April 23rd, 2026. A procession will follow to Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, where a graveside service with military honors will take place from 1:45 PM to 2:15 PM.
FAMILY
Hannah Nichole Taylor-JensenDaughter
Along with many loving cousins and dear friends, the list of thse who loved him was truly endless.
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