Apostle William Calvin Taylor, upon hearing the words, “Well done thou good and faithful servant”, entered the Church Triumphant on May 19, 2026, at the Fairview Campus of the Cleveland Clinic. He was born on April 12, 1944, in Youngstown, Ohio, to the union of Olive and Joseph Taylor.
Apostle Taylor was a cherished member of the community, a dedicated servant of the Lord, and a loving patriarch to his family. He was known for his unwavering faith, compassionate spirit, and commitment to serving others. He was several weeks from retiring from the hospitality services at Youngstown State University. Despite his educational journey being curtailed, he enriched the lives of those around him through the wisdom he shared and the love he exuded.
Apostle Taylor was a minister of God who dedicated his life to the ministry upon his calling in 1982. His journey began at Holiness Baptist Church, where he was licensed to preach under Pastor Harvey Minics. In 1987, he was appointed Assistant Pastor at The Burning Bush Missionary Church, serving with passion and diligence for two years.
Following divine guidance, Apostle Taylor established New Hope Renewing of the Holy Ghost Church in 1989, opening the doors of the church in humble beginnings at their home, before securing a location on Hillman Street in 1991. In 1994, the church experienced another move and, in 2002, solidified its future with the purchase of a permanent home at 336 Breaden Street, Youngstown.
Apostle Taylor was elevated to the esteemed office of Apostle in January 2024, a testament to his decades of faithful service and spiritual leadership.
An avid Cleveland Browns fan, Apostle William spent countless Sundays as a passionate commentator, dissecting games and coaching strategies with his son Dwayne and fellow church members on the phone. He was a true die-hard fan, reveling in both the highs and lows of each season.
Fishing was more than a hobby for Apostle William; it was a time of therapy and laughter shared with family on trips that are now cherished memories. In addition, his culinary skills were legendary, making him the king of the kitchen and rightfully earning him bragging rights for his mastery of the grill. He took great joy in planning holiday meals and delighting his family with his savory dishes.
Apostle William Taylor was not just a strong leader in his family; he was also a devoted teacher of the word of God. He dedicated his life to being a living example of faith, love, and compassion. His love for his church community was palpable, and he treated every member like family.
Apostle Taylor William was a devoted husband to Pastor Betty Taylor, his partner in marriage and ministry. Together they diligently reached out to uplift countless lives for nearly five decades of pastoral service, always remaining faithful to the vision the Lord bestowed upon them. It is Pastor Betty’s passion and desire to continue the vision and to fulfill the mandate of the calling.
His legacy is also entrusted to his family. Affectionately known as “Dad” to his children, Apostle Taylor cherished every moment with his children, Valerie Michele (Dessie) Howell, Elder Dwayne (Pastor Shirrell) Joe, Natosha Taylor, Rochelle (Chris) Taylor-Williams, Dion Taylor, Christopher Taylor, and TaMikiea Butler.
He also leaves precious memories and moments with the brothers he loved dearly Joseph Tatylor and Samuel Taylor. The bond of brotherhood remains solid even in his passing. As a child, Apostle Taylor was called “Porky” and his nieces and nephews who lovingly refer to him as Uncle Porky will miss him profoundly.
As his faith became sight, Apostle Taylor became part of the “Great Cloud of Witnesses” which includes his parents, and sisters Julia Kitchen, Naomi Moore, each who preceded him into eternity.
In honor of his life and legacy, funeral services will be held on Wednesday June 3, 2026, at the Jaylex Event Center., 2110 Glenwood Ave. There will be a 10:00 AM public viewing and family visitation. The Celebration of Life services will begin at 11:00 AM with Bishop Alice Parkman as the eulogist.
Following the committal ceremony, Apostle Taylor will be laid to rest at Tod Homestead Cemetery, 2200 Belmont Ave, to await the return of The Lord. Apostle Taylor's life was a testament to faith, love, and service. May his spirit find eternal peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire all who strive to follow the light he so generously shared.
At this time of intimate need and personal loss, the family of Apostle William Calvin Taylor, elected to entrust the Ministry of Comfort & Care, along with Transitional After-Care Arrangements to the J. E. Washington Funeral Services, 2234 Glenwood Avenue, Youngstown, Ohio, 330.782.8500.
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I love you dad 🧡 Me and the kids will miss you so much. I wish I had more time with you.
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