Willis Wainwright Taylor

Willis Wainwright Taylor was born to Ozella Bernice Ward (Gillaspie) on October 23, 1935, in Tatum, Texas. Willis received his formal education in an all-black community outside of Dekalb, Texas by the name of Garland. He graduated from Garland High School in 1953.

He accepted God as his Lord and Savior at a early age, and united with St. Paul Baptist Church, in Tatum, Texas.

After moving to Dallas, he met and wed his sweetheart Helen Maxine Johnson. To that union, they had 3 children Frederick, Charlotte, and David. 

During Willis career he was a Barber, Meat Chef at Neiman Marcus, Truck Driver, and Insurance agent, as well as a member of Teamsters. He served his community for one term as a committee member for Lou Huff Park and Recreation Center from July 5, 1966 to July 5, 1970. He was a very hard worker.

He’s preceded in death by his wife, Helen Maxine Johnson Taylor; his mother and stepfather, William and Ozella Gillaspie, brother, O.B. Gillaspie; sister, Edna Fredericks (Najah El Amin Nee), and grandparents, Spurgeon and Candace Ward. 

He leaves behind his children, Frederick (Terri), Charlotte, David (Deidrie), 5 grandchildren -Candace (Kevin) Page, Arianna English, Asiah Taylor, Amber Taylor, David Taylor, Jr., one great-granddaughter Jazlyn McDowell; 2 sister-in-law, Dorothy Johnson, Betty Ashley, nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives and friends. 

Disclaimer: This biography is specially composed by the family and posted accordingly. 

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