Michael W. Taylor Sr.

In Loving Memory of Michael W. Taylor Sr.

October 11, 1949 – September 8, 2026

Michael W. Taylor Sr., a beloved husband, father, Papa, brother, uncle, cousin and friend, passed away on September 8, 2026, in Layton, Utah, at the age of 76. Born on October 11, 1949, in Hemet, California, to Dolores and Truman Taylor, Michael leaves behind a legacy of unconditional love, laughter, kindness, and a family who will forever cherish him.

Michael grew up surrounded by family and was one of four siblings, alongside his sisters, Marsha and Karen, and his brother, Larry. From a young age, he had a heart full of love and a protective spirit. He was the kind of brother who would never let his sister walk alone to the outhouse because she was afraid. Even then, he was showing the people he loved that they were never alone.

After his family moved from Arkansas back to California before his senior year, Michael attended San Jacinto High School, where he graduated with the Class of 1967. He made sure his presence was known, and he did it in a way that perfectly captured his one-of-a-kind personality. During high school, he and a classmate created a story that they had been abducted by aliens and returned safely to Earth. It was the kind of unforgettable humor and imagination that made Michael who he was—a man who could make anyone laugh and turn an ordinary moment into a cherished memory.

One of the greatest blessings of Michael’s life was the love he shared with his wife, Penny. Their story was truly written in the stars. They were born on the same day, one year apart, and their love became the foundation of a beautiful family. Just one day before his high school graduation, Michael saw the woman who would become the love of his life. He asked her sister, Aunt Verna, to introduce them, and from that moment on, the rest became history.

Together, Michael and his beloved wife built a family filled with love, laughter, and countless memories. They welcomed their children:

• Michael Jr., born January 11, 1970

• Derek, born October 9, 1973

• Sarah, born October 10, 1977

To his children, Michael was so much more than a father. He was their greatest protector, their biggest supporter, their safe place, and their constant source of love. He never missed a game, practice, recital, or birthday party. He showed up—for every milestone, every celebration, and every moment that mattered. He was proud to be there, and his family always knew they could count on him.

Michael was a devoted husband, father, and PaPa whose love was generous, steadfast, and deeply felt. He gave his whole heart to the people he cherished, offering protection in times of uncertainty, encouragement when it was needed, and laughter that could ease even the heaviest moment. In his presence, people found a place to belong. He had a rare gift for making each person feel seen, valued, and loved.

Michael was also the life of every party and loved nothing more than a good get-together surrounded by family and friends. He brought energy, joy, and laughter wherever he went. Before long, he would be leading a conga line, encouraging everyone to join in and making memories that would be talked about for years to come. Celebrations were brighter because Michael was there, and his spirit made every gathering feel special.

His love extended far beyond his immediate family. Their home was a place where even their children’s friends felt safe, welcomed, and loved. Whether someone needed advice, a listening ear, a little encouragement, or a funny comment that would make them laugh, Michael was there. He gave people comfort, acceptance, and a place where they could simply be themselves.

Michael’s greatest joy was being a PaPa. He adored his grandchildren: Kandace, Emily, Somer, Michael “Trey,” Derek, Zachary, Seth, Shine, Austin, Cheyenne, Jesse, and Ella and Allisea. And then came his great-grandchildren, the pride and joy of his life: Claire and Elias, twins; Zayden, Echo, Axton, Ryver, Sarai, and Slade. They brought a special kind of happiness to his heart, and his love for them will continue through every generation.

Michael was the most amazing husband, dad, and PaPa his family could have ever asked for. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for someone he loved or believed in. He was a huge light in every room he entered, a steady source of comfort, and a man whose love was felt by so many.

His family will miss his laughter, his stories, his thoughtful advice, his patriotism, and the quiet comfort of having him near. Yet the love Michael gave remains woven through the lives of those he leaves behind—his wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, and friends. It endures in the memories they share, the lessons he offered by word and example, and the kindness they carry forward because he taught them how.

Whenever the national anthem plays, they will remember the pride it stirred in Michael’s heart and the country he served with honor. In that familiar music, and in the many moments that call him to mind, his devotion and spirit will remain present.

One of Michael’s favorite sayings was, “Don’t worry, be happy.” Those words captured so much of who he was. He believed in finding joy, making people laugh, loving deeply, and reminding those around him not to let life’s worries steal their happiness. His family hopes to carry those words with them, just as they carry his love, his laughter, and the beautiful memories he gave them.

Michael’s life was a gift, and his most enduring legacy is the family he loved so completely. His laughter will live in their memories, his wisdom will accompany them in the days ahead, and his love will be felt in every gathering, celebration, and quiet moment when they long for him most. Though his absence will be deeply felt, he will remain close in all that he gave them and in all that they are because of him.

Don’t worry, be happy, Dad. Until we meet again. We love you forever.