Jeff Taylor, 63, rural Newtown, passed away peacefully at home early Friday afternoon, June 5, 2026, while surrounded by family and friends. He had been in failing health for several years, but he was grateful for his triumph over lung cancer in May 2025.
Jeff was born on September 12, 1962, at Williamsport Hospital to Richard M. and Sandra L. (Wall) Taylor. They preceded him in death.
He was a proud graduate of the Fountain Central High School Class of 1981, and he attended culinary arts school at Northwood Institute at West Baden Springs, Ind. He enjoyed his work as a baker in the Purdue Memorial Union during the 1980s and early '90s.
A man of many nicknames to countless friends who loved him dearly, Jeff possessed near-encyclopedic knowledge of just about everyone, including most of the people you knew, too. He was a social butterfly from a young age and enjoyed parties, bonfires, all kinds of music, cooking, baking, his sweet pets, and particularly his flower and vegetable gardens. His horticultural talents were rivaled by few. If you couldn't find him, there was a good chance he was taking time for a little therapy in the dirt.
He was endlessly proud of his family, especially his grandsons Zander and Gavin. He was excited to meet his first granddaughter Leona Lynn, who will be born in just a few weeks. He always looked forward to Florida vacations with Stacey, Taryn & Cory and the boys. He needed to get to that beach and bake in the sun as soon as possible.
Anyone who knew him has at least a few Jeff Taylor stories, which tended to involve him saying or doing something hilariously outrageous or, of course, accidentally hurting himself in a new and creative way. Time spent with Jeff meant a great deal of time spent laughing.
Jeff didn't often discuss his faith, but he was a God-fearing Christian who was solid in his beliefs. Despite all his trials and mistakes, which he would openly discuss with anyone, he knew he was saved and would be reunited with his Savior and his loved ones in Heaven.
Jeff is survived by his former wife, Stacey (Adams) Taylor of Williamsport; daughter, Taryn (Cory) Gay of Williamsport, and his grandchildren, Zander, Gavin, and Leona on the way; brother, Chris (Sally) Taylor of rural Newtown, and his nephews, Isaac, of Crawfordsville, and Henry; sister, April of Attica, and his nephew, Ozzy (Layla) Taylor Jean of rural Newtown; many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews; as well as dozens and dozens of special friends.
He is predeceased by his parents, Richard on October 4, 2017, and Sandy on December 15, 2024; grandparents, Cecil and Delores (Butcher) Taylor, Howard and Crystal (Palin) Kimbrell, and Leolus "Ike" Wall; several uncles and aunts; and far too many classmates and friends.
A man with a kind soul, Jeff was loved, and he loved right back. If you met Jeff, it was hard not to love him. He forced us to, and frankly, we all are better for it.
Visitation will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 13, 2026, with services immediately following visitation at Maus Funeral Home, 704 S. Council St., Attica. Pastor Mike Parks of the Newtown Community Church will officiate. Burial will be at Union Christian Cemetery, 1213 E. Aylesworth Road, Veedersburg. Please feel free to wear casual and colorful attire – just like Jeff's personality.
The family requests that memorial donations to assist with funeral expenses be made at gofund.me/2a6a12f2f, or directly to Maus Funeral Home.

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