James Edward Taylor

James (Jim) Taylor, Jr. was born on June 23, 1923 in Kansas City, MO to the loving union of James Edward Taylor who preceded him in death.
Jim Taylor resided in Kansas City until the attack on Pearl Harbor and the start of World War II in 1941. Jim joined the U.S. Navy and valiantly served his country from 1941 to 1946 as a 3rd Class Petty Officer aboard the USS Lavallette in the South Pacific. Jim's military service to his country was one of his proudest achievements in life. He was honored for his service by participating in the first Honor Flight of WW II veterans in South Mississippi who were flown to Washington, D.C. to visit their memorial in 2011. So, it is fitting that the Lord called him home on Veteran's Day, November 11, 2015.
Upon discharge from the Navy, Jim Taylor married the former Eugenia Mae Miller and moved to Chicago, IL. To that union two precious sons were born, Ronald Edward Taylor and Christopher James Taylor. Jim was preceded in death by Christopher in 1994.
Jim Taylor was a successful businessman and property owner for over 50 years in the City of Chicago. His building maintenance business was well known and sought out by individuals and major businesses throughout the area. Jim was also a colorful man-about-town who was known for his sartorial excellence and his love of Cadillac cars. His social achievements included world-class roller skating, bowling and disco dancing. He was also a lifetime member of the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge and over a 50 year span achieved the level of 3rd Degree Worshipful Master.
In 1980, Jim married the love of his life, Dr. Bernice Richmond Taylor. Their union was blessed by the birth their son, James Edward Taylor (Jamie). Jim was excellent cook and loved to entertain his lodge brothers, church members, motorhome club members and anyone else who showed up at the door. Jim, and Bernice also loved to travel and as members of the Windy City Travelers, the Road Masters and the National African American RVers Association, they have camped in 40 of the 50 states and Canada.
Jim and Bernice retired to Biloxi, MS in 2004 and joined the Main Street Missionary Baptist Church in 2005. As a Head Trustee, Jim was a devoted member of Main Street and utilized his considerable skills to repair and maintain the church. He was actively involved in Sunday school and could be counted on to steal the show during any Black History Program or Easter Play.
Jim was a fancy dresser. He loved to be praised for his stunning Sunday wardrobe, especially the coordinated accessories that he made himself. He also loved to wear his World War II sweatshirt and cap everywhere but to church. He would beam with happiness whenever he was stopped and thanked for his service. No doubt he has a huge smile on his face up in Heaven today as we gather here to say: ""Jim, thank you for your service.""
Jim Taylor's loving memory will forever be in the hearts of his devoted wife, Bernice; his sons, Ronald and Jamie; his grandson, Ronnie Taylor; his nieces, nephews, and a host of grand and great grand nieces and nephews; and other relatives and friends.
A memorial service will be held Saturday, November 21, 2015 at Main Street Missionary Baptist Church, 321 Main Street, Biloxi at 10:00AM. RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 274 Beauvoir Rd, Biloxi is serving the family. Online tributes can be made at www.riemannfamily.com