James M. Taylor

Mr. James M. Taylor of Gulfport, MS passed away at home on April 1st, 2014. Mr. Taylor was born on October 3rd, 1941 in Corinth, Mississippi to Marvin and Ollie Taylor. After relocating to the coast, Mr. Taylor graduated from Gulfport High School in 1959 and furthered his education at Perkinston Junior College. After completing his Associate's Degree at Perk, Mr. Taylor attended USM in Hattiesburg. He graduated with a degree in Industrial Arts and met his future wife, Aline Hobbs. After graduating from USM in 1964, James and Aline were married and settled in Collins, Mississippi. Mr. Taylor taught Industrial Arts at Collins High School before returning to the Mississippi Gulf Coast in 1965. He began teaching for Harrison County School District at Orange Grove Middle School as an Industrial Arts teacher. James then served as the Principal of Lyman Elementary School and the Assistant Principal of Harrison Central High School until he became the Vocational Director for Harrison County School District in 1978. Mr. Taylor remained in this capacity until his retirement in 1992. After 28 years in education, Mr. Taylor had an opportunity to serve as a hunting lease manager for Ryan Walsh Stevedore Company. Since he was an avid outdoorsman, this was the job of his dreams, and he was able to work as a guide for five years in both Texas and Alabama.
Mr. Taylor is preceded in death by his parents, Marvin (Moe) and Ollie Taylor. He is survived by his wife of fifty years, Aline Hobbs Taylor, and his two daughters, Jamie Taylor Wade (Harry Williams) and Jennifer Taylor Hopwood (Jeff). He was also blessed with seven grandchildren, Tarryn Wade, Dylan Wade, Ethan Wade, Taylor Hopwood, Madelynn Hopwood, Morgan Hopwood, and Hunter Hopwood. He is also survived by his brother Tommy Taylor (Alfa) and three nephews, Mark Taylor (Kara), Shane Taylor (Susan), and Scott Taylor.
Mr. Taylor was a devoted son, husband, brother, father, and friend. James touched many lives through his teaching career and through his life. He will be sadly missed by his family, but memories of him will always be cherished.
Visitation will be Thursday, April 3, 2014 from 9:00 until 10:00 a.m. at the RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 11280 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, with services following at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow the service at Finley Cemetery.
Tributes and memories may be shared at www.riemannfamily.com.