Thomas Joel Taylor

                                       August 24, 1958 - July 18, 2024

Thomas Joel Taylor, known as Tom, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2024, in Melbourne, FL, surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on August 24, 1958, in Denver, CO, to Bruce Gregory Taylor and Rose Feigum Taylor.

At just three weeks old, Tom moved with his family to Austin, TX, where his father pursued a degree at the University of Texas following four years of service in the US Air Force. Tom grew up in Austin and Round Rock, attending local schools before graduating from Round Rock High School in 1976.

In 1980, Tom enlisted in the US Navy, beginning a distinguished military career. During this time, he met and married his first wife, Nena, with whom he had four children. Tom took immense pride in his military service, rising through the ranks from Chief Petty Officer (E-7) to a Commissioned Officer, ultimately achieving the rank of Lieutenant (O-3E). He was proud to be a “Mustang,” a term for those who earn their commission after serving as enlisted personnel. His legacy of service continues through three of his children and his eldest grandson, who are currently serving in the US Army, with his daughter enduring multiple combat deployments and his two sons also achieving “Mustang” status. He retired from the Navy in January 2003 after more than 23 years of service and continued to serve his country by working as a General-Schedule (GS) employee for the US Coast Guard in Florida for nearly 20 years, retiring again in 2021.

In June 2008, Tom met his second wife, Connie Santos, at Port Canaveral while working for the Coast Guard. They married on Halloween day in 2015 and shared a deep and enduring love that brought immense joy and happiness to both of their lives. Together, they created countless cherished memories in New Smyrna Beach before moving to Merritt Island, where they continued to nurture their love and build a life filled with warmth and laughter.

Tom was preceded in death by his father, Bruce Taylor, his grandparents, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. He is survived by his wife, Connie, of Merritt Island, FL; his mother, Rose, of Georgetown, TX; his children, MSG Maria Taylor, WO1 Thomas Taylor, Jr. (Maria), CPT Benjamin Taylor (Brittney), and Zachary Taylor; his stepdaughter, Regina; and his grandchildren, PFC Trent Taylor, Natalie, Mina, Nathaniel, Alexandria, Ava, Julian, Sayler, and Samuel. He is also survived by his siblings, Gregory (Laura), Annette, and Jonathan, and his loyal dog, Boone. Tom is also survived by his uncle Joel, aunt Connie, nephew Michael (Caitlin) and several cousins.

At Tom’s request, a memorial service and interment of his ashes will be held on August 22, 2024, at 9:00 am at Central Texas Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, Texas, with Pastor Drew Ingram of Christ Lutheran Church presiding. A reception for family and friends will follow at Christ Lutheran Church in Georgetown, Texas at noon, with an evening reception at El Ranchito Salon de Fiestas in Georgetown, TX, at 3:00 pm.

Tom’s dedication to his country and his family will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him, continuing a family tradition of military service that traces back to World War I. His enduring legacy of love, service, and unwavering strength will forever illuminate the path for future generations, reminding us all of the profound impact one life can have on the world.

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