Joseph Patrick Taylor

Joseph Patrick (Pat) Taylor age 79 of Houston, Texas passed away March 8, 2024 peacefully in his sleep. Pat was born on April 8,1944 to William Edward Taylor, II and Ruth Eileen Kaine in Dallas, Texas. He spent his early childhood years growing up in Dallas alongside his brothers William Edward Taylor, III and Thomas Michael Taylor, and sister Ruth Eileen Taylor until moving to California with his father and younger brother Tom.

He leaves behind the love of his life, his beautiful bride of 59 years Candice (Candi) Glee Taylor, his older brother William Edward Taylor, III (Maureen Ann Nankivell), along with his son, Sean Patrick Taylor (Cici Lyn Moody), and daughters Teresa Shannon Molsbee (Jamey Dale Molsbee) and Shani Eileen Markus, grandchildren Jonathan and Rachelle Taylor, Daniel and Chelsea Molsbee, Joseph and Amanda Taylor, Cameron Molsbee and Amanda Suniga, Jordan Underwood, Savanna Underwood, Cayden Underwood, Sean and Sarah Szpak, Jaron and Laura Molsbee, and seven beautiful great-grandchildren Peyton, Adilyn, Emerson, Kyleigh, Joel, Kaylynn, and Astrid, as well as many friends.

While times in his early life were sometimes very difficult and he carried the weight at a young age of raising his younger brother, he faced it with determination and love. Continuing to grow up in California, he made many friends with whom he formed lifelong friendships, and also met his two best friends, Bernie Wiese and John Pasko, who both stepped into the role of godfather to his children and remained beside him as brothers throughout life. He also met the love of his life, Candi, and they began their beautiful and blessed life together on December 26, 1964.

He had a determination that drove him but could always see the silly and humorous side of life. His life was full of love and laughter, so much laughter. He had an adventurous spirit and was often quite the daredevil, performing tasks that often had Candi and others watching with a mixture of irritation and awe. Pat saw the challenge in everything and embraced it, challenging others both physically and intellectually as he was a person who loved to debate. He challenged his children from an early age to ask questions, search for answers, and open their minds to different viewpoints.

He achieved many things in his lifetime which speak to his determined spirit. While raising a family with young children, working full-time nights, and going to school full-time during the day, he achieved a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State Polytechnic University with honors, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He also played semi-professional football, often being referred to as “small but mighty.” He went on to build a career in the computer industry after spending much time working in telecommunications. He enjoyed off-road motorcycling, camping, traveling, kayaking, golf, golf, and more golf!

His legacy of a life well lived will carry on through his loving wife, devoted children, adoring grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and all those who loved him and the lives he touched so deeply. A celebration of life will be held at a later date and all who wish to celebrate his wonderful and blessed life are welcome to attend. This link will be updated with the details once they have been determined.