Taylor Scott Porter

Taylor Scott Porter — cherished father, son, brother, uncle, friend, and so much more — returned home to his Heavenly Father on Thursday, June 12, 2025, after a severe and debilitating battle with alcoholism and addiction.

Taylor was born on January 30, 1988, in Logan, Utah, to Jed and Susan (Hill) Porter. He spent his childhood in Roy, Utah, and attended North Park Elementary, Sand Ridge Junior High, and Roy High School.

From an early age, Taylor stood out for his infectious personality. He was always the comedian in any group — family, friends, or coworkers. His quick wit, sharp humor, and uncanny ability to impersonate just about anyone made him the center of attention wherever he went. He could quote an entire movie after seeing it once, and his jokes, though sometimes bordering on inappropriate, always left people laughing. His humor was one of his most endearing and unforgettable traits.

While growing up, Taylor was always into something — team sports, skateboarding, snowboarding, or even jamming out on the guitar to Blink-182 songs. He had a natural rhythm and loved anything that let him be active or just have fun.

He was a natural leader and a magnetic presence. During his school years, he made friends effortlessly — the kind of person everyone wanted to be around. He served as Student Body President in ninth grade and excelled not just socially but athletically. He earned the “Four-Sport Award” in junior high for participating in athletics. Taylor continued to excel at football, baseball, and basketball, aided by his tall stature, while attending Roy High. An avid viewer of college and professional sports, he loved being able to catch games regularly both in person and while lounging on the couch. He remained dedicated to physical fitness throughout his life, later becoming a competitive bodybuilder and winning a novice men’s NGA competition in 2010 — a goal he was incredibly proud to achieve.

Taylor graduated from Weber State University in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Supply Chain Management, and went on to earn his MBA from Utah State University in 2014. He was driven, intelligent, and determined to build a meaningful career. He worked at Hill Air Force Base for most of his adult life, holding several roles including Program Manager, Lead Program Manager, and most recently, Chief of Depot Partnering for the F-22 System Program Office.

God gave Taylor an extra dose of charm and mischief — he had a gift for saying just the right sarcastic or snarky thing at the perfect moment. He was playful in his teasing, and his friends knew this was his way of showing love. If you were one of those people lucky enough to be called his friend — thank you. Your love, laughter, and presence meant the world to him.

Taylor shared a deep bond with his dad, especially over their mutual love of loud, classic rock music and classic cars. At the time of his death, he owned a project 1969 Corvette that he was excited to fix up and show off.

He was also passionate about travel. His career gave him the opportunity to explore many parts of the world, but he also sought out adventures on his own. Some of his favorite destinations included Dubai, China, Paris, and Canada.

In 2019, Taylor’s life changed forever with the arrival of his beloved daughter, Sophia Rose. Becoming her father was the greatest joy of his life. He fully embraced the role of “girl dad” — attending dance recitals, school performances, and daydreaming about the trips and memories they would one day share. Hawaii together was one of those cherished memories. Spending time with his daughter was the highlight of his entire 37 years; she was truly everything to him. He especially looked forward to being able to pass on his love of sports to Sophia, anticipating teaching and coaching her as she grew. His love for her was unconditional and all-encompassing.

Taylor is survived by his daughter, Sophia Rose Porter; Sophia’s mother and the love of his life, Jessica Petrilla; father, Jed Porter; sister, Paige (Brandon) Etterlein; brother, Jaxon (Madelynn) Porter; nephews, Knox and Asher, and many loving extended family members and dear friends. He is preceded in death by his mother, Susan Porter, and many grandparents. His family finds comfort in imagining a joyous reunion between mother and son in Heaven — both finally free from earthly struggles.

Taylor had the potential to do anything in this life. After the heartbreaking loss of his mother in 2021, he fell into the grip of addiction. Though he fought valiantly, this was a battle he could not overcome. To anyone who is facing a similar struggle — please seek and accept help. You are not alone, and your life is worth living fully and freely. Don’t let substances steal the essence of who you are meant to become.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, June 27, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. All who knew Taylor are welcome and invited to visit with family on Thursday, June 26, 2025 from 6:00-8:00 p.m., and from 10:00-10:45 a.m. on Friday. All services will take place at Russon Mortuary in Syracuse, Utah, 1585 West 300 South. Taylor’s ashes will be interred at West Point City Cemetery thereafter.

Taylor's funeral service will be live-streamed for those interested. Please check the obituary webpage 5-10 minutes before the service begins for the link.

Our hearts are shattered by the loss of Taylor. Yet we are grateful for the time we had and the joy he brought into so many lives. May we all hold on to the happy memories and honor the light he gave so freely while he was here.