Thurman Clay Taylor

Brief Reflection into the life of Thurman C. Taylor

On February 20, 2025, Thurman was called for earth to reward after a long fight with cancer which he lived victoriously with for over 30 years. Thurman was the only surviving son of Cordie Mae (Pryor) and John E. Taylor.

Thurman was born in Winchester, TN before his parents moved to Elyria, OH. He was a proud alumnus of Elyria High School, Class of 1957. Thurman made an impact in a multiplicity of sports while being a Pioneer and was recruited to play Major League Baseball however was strongly encouraged by his father to go to college. Thurman went to Ohio University for three years and because of this burning desire attempted to try out again but was considered too old to play at that time.

Thurman began his professional career working for the Water Works. His outgoing personality opened doors for him to work for the City of Elyria. He retired after being the first African American in New Orleans, LA to become a sales representative for Motorola.

Thurman was blessed to have two daughters, Maria Taylor and Debbie Taylor, from the union with his first wife and lifelong friend, Norma (Parrish) Taylor. He also gained two sons, Wil Stevens III through marriage to his, widower, Donna Stevens-Taylor and Mark Taylor who developed a special spiritual father-son bond.

Thurman was an avid fisherman, enjoyed spending time with his “Brother in Love”, hosting events, being the life of the party, dancing, going to the casino and horse racing. He was an avid Cleveland and New Orleans sports fan. Most of all Thurman Taylor loved God, His family and all of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Thurman would befriend and hold people close to his heart as family like Darlene Brown, Cheri Godenschwager and Bill Ogle.

Thurman leaves to cherish his memory, Maria Taylor of San Antonio, TX, Wil Stevens III of Millbrook, AL, Darlene Brown of Lorain, OH, Mark Taylor of Elyria, OH; grandchildren, Tommy Williams and Miyana Brown of San Antonio, TX; Wil IV and Marissa Stevens of Millbrook, AL; 6 great-grandchildren; sisters, Gloria “Pat” Bullocks of Elyria, OH and Diane Collins of New Orleans, LA. Thurman will be missed by his casino crew, breakfast crew and family bible study.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna (Stevens) Taylor, daughter, Debra “Debbie” Taylor; granddaughter, Nancy “Nia” Taylor; parents Cordie Mae and John Taylor, and siblings, James “Big Tate” (Ethel) Taylor, Theresa (Wilbur K.) Allen, Melvin (Sharon “Kay”) Taylor, and Loretta Mahone.

Visitation for Thurman will be held on Friday February 28th at 11am with a Celebration of Life to follow at 12 noon located at Second Baptist Church 427 Chapman Ln Elyria, OH. 

Live streaming at Second Baptist Church Facebook page.

Funeral Arrangements Entrusted to  

Carter Funeral Homes Inc.

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