Harry Taylor

Obituary For Harry Taylor

Harry was born in Camden, South Carolina, to Willie and Rebecca Taylor, and was one of seven children. From the beginning, family was at the center of his life. He was raised with the values of hard work, perseverance, responsibility, and devotion, values he carried with him throughout his life. Harry graduated from Jackson High School in Camden, South Carolina, and later served in the United States military, receiving an honorable discharge.

After his military service, Harry continued his education at Pratt Institute, where he studied architecture. He went on to complete numerous independent projects, including work for the Crab House and Black Vets, among others. Through his work, Harry demonstrated the creativity, discipline, and determination that defined him. He took pride in what he accomplished and believed that every task, whether great or small, deserved his full effort.

To know Harry was to know someone dependable. He was a reliable, loyal, and steadfast friend, the kind of person people could call on and trust to be there. His word carried meaning, and his support was sincere. He gave generously of his time, his knowledge, and himself, leaving an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Harry James Taylor, age 83, passed away peacefully at his home in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, New York, on September 12, 2026.

Harry loved sports and was a devoted advocate for athletics. Many will remember his skill as a paddle ball player, a sport he enjoyed greatly. During football season, Monday nights were a special part of his routine, spent joyfully watching football and sharing in the excitement of the game. These simple moments reflected Harry’s ability to find happiness in the things he loved and to make those moments meaningful.

Harry also had a deep appreciation for photography. He was often behind the lens at family gatherings, celebrations, and special events with friends. He captured more than photographs; he preserved memories, relationships, and moments that might otherwise have passed too quickly. Because of him, many treasured occasions will continue to live on in the hearts of those who were there.

Above all, Harry was a leader, mentor, and devoted family man. He was a source of guidance and strength, especially to his nieces and nephews. He took great pride in supporting his family and made himself available whenever he was needed. His love was especially evident in his relationship with his niece, Danese, whom he lovingly claimed as his daughter. He stood by her through every circumstance, offering encouragement, wisdom, protection, and unwavering love.

Harry’s presence brought comfort and reassurance to his family and friends. He was someone whose absence would be felt deeply because his place in the lives of others was so meaningful. He gave people the confidence to keep going, the comfort of knowing they were not alone, and the lasting gift of being remembered and cared for.

Harry leaves behind a legacy of hard work, family devotion, generosity, loyalty, and selflessness. His kindness, dependability, and enormous generosity of spirit will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him. The lessons he taught, the memories he captured, the encouragement he offered, and the love he gave will continue through the generations.

Harry is survived by his elder sister, Lennie Ola Smalls, his brother, Willie Taylor, and his younger sister, Ruby Floyd, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great-nieces and nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends.

Though Harry is no longer with us in person, his influence remains—in the family he supported, in the friends who trusted him, in the memories he preserved, and in the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed, lovingly remembered, and forever honored.

One of Harry’s favorite quotes beautifully reflects the way he lived his life:

“Once a task has begun,

Never leave it till it’s done.

Be the task great or small,

Do it well or not at all.”

May Harry James Taylor rest peacefully, knowing that he was deeply loved, greatly respected, and will never be forgotten.

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