Derek Stephen Taylor

Derek Stephen Taylor, Sr., of Palmer Township—a beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle, grand-uncle and great-granduncle —peacefully transitioned from labor to reward on April 21, 2025, surrounded by God’s love. Born on June 11, 1953, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Derek was the son of the late Charles Taylor and the late Margaret Boone Taylor.

Known for his magnetic personality and warm spirit, Derek had a remarkable gift for lighting up every room he entered. His ability to connect with others was effortless—he truly never met a stranger.

Derek retired from FedEx, where he worked diligently in the hazardous goods department. His commitment to ensuring safety and regulatory compliance in a challenging field earned the admiration of his colleagues and supervisors alike.

A man of deep and abiding faith, Derek was a devoted member of Greater Shiloh Church. He served faithfully on the Gatekeeper Ministry and was actively involved in Men’s Ministry events. His walk with God was evident in every aspect of his life, shaping his character and the compassion he extended to others.

Education was a profound point of pride for Derek. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from St. Peter’s College—a meaningful milestone made even more powerful by his journey. Having paused his studies in his early years to aid in the support his mother and younger siblings, his return to education reflected both his selfless commitment to family and his enduring belief in the power of learning.

At the core of Derek’s life was family. He was a devoted father to his children, Derek and Danielle whom he shared with his former wife, Earline Taylor. He was a loving grandfather to the joy of his life, his grandson Carter. He was a caring and present uncle to his nieces Julie, December, Tonya, and Jasmine; nephews Derron, Damon, Darius, and Landon; and a beloved granduncle to Amaya, McKenzie, Gianna, Victor and Mason, and a proud new great-granduncle to Creed. He treasured every moment spent with them and poured his love, wisdom, and humor into each relationship.

Derek shared a deep, unshakable bond with his siblings—Stephanie Taylor Ayers (Michael), Darryl Taylor, and Darius Taylor. Their closeness, built on years of shared experience, unconditional love, and mutual support, stood as a powerful testament to the strength of family ties.

The friends he made in his lifetime are too numerous to list, but from Fisk St, to the halls of Henry Snyder High School, to basketball at Audubon Park, to the cafeteria at Saint Peter College, to the various departments at Federal Express and Allied, Derek built friendships that lasted a lifetime. He kept people close. He showed up. He called just to say, ‘You Good”? That is the kind of man he was.

A passionate sports fan, Derek loved talking about the Knicks and the Giants. But more than any team, he was Carter’s biggest fan. He took immense pride in attending his grandson’s karate classes, basketball games, and track meets—always ready with enthusiastic support and a few coaching tips.

Though Derek’s earthly journey has come to an end, his spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched. His legacy of love, generosity, faith, and joy will echo through the stories told, the lessons shared, and the enduring warmth of his presence. He leaves behind a beautiful reminder of the power of connection, the joy of togetherness, and the lasting impact of a life lived with purpose and heart.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Derek’s enduring legacy by supporting the educational future of his beloved grandson, Carter. In his lifetime, Derek thoughtfully established a 529 college savings account in his grandson’s Carter Brookins name.

To contribute to Carter Brookins 529 account, cut, copy and paste the following link:

https://digital.fidelity.com/prgw/digital/familygifting/mlgLandingPage?uuid=699f8d551cad457788f44656e56ba649