Walter Taylor, age 85, of Birmingham, Alabama, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, January 2, 2026.

Walter was born on January 15, 1940, to the late Phillip and Aggie Taylor. He was a proud 1958 graduate of Hooper City High School, where he met the love of his life and his high school sweetheart, Michael Jean Goggins Taylor, who preceded him in death.

Throughout his life, he was known for his steady presence, strength of character, and devotion to those he loved. He lived a full life shaped by hard work, resilience, and care for his family and community. Walter confessed Christ at an early age and joined Mt. Zion Baptist Church, Zion City where he remained faithful until his failing health. He also served as Chairman of the Deacon Board for several years and was a long time member of the Men's Choir.

Walter devoted 39 years of service to Sloss Industries, formerly known as U.S. Pipe Steel Plant, where he worked as a Foreman until his retirement. Never one to slow down; he later pursued another passion by owning and operating W.T. Tours Transportation Bus Services. He truly enjoyed driving his bus and traveling across the country with groups of people, creating memories everywhere he went.

Walter had a deep love for fishing and hunting. He also took great pride in working on his own cars and trucks. Known as a natural jokester, he never met a stranger and he loved laughter and having fun with his family and friends. One of his greatest joys was cooking—so much so that in his earlier years, he was known as a top chef at Dale Cellars Steak House, where he worked for several years.

Perhaps one of Walter's most well-known hobbies was grocery shopping. If there was a sale, he was sure to be there when the doors opened. Thanks to him, cooking and grocery shopping were never a worry for his beloved wife. These everyday acts of care were just another way he showed his love for his family.

Walter leaves to cherish his memory, his three daughters, Angela Taylor, Tracy Taylor-Hawkins, and Erica Taylor. He was blessed with six grandchildren—Mitchell, Rafael, Tayla, Terrance, Kedric, and Micah—all of whom affectionately called him "Papa." Walter had six siblings who all preceded him in death, with the exception of his beloved sister, Ms. Linda Saunders, whom he loved dearly. He also leaves behind a host of friends, cousins, nieces and nephews whom many of them lovingly and affectionately still called him "Bae-Bro" and "Bo-Dilly".

He took pride in his home and his roots in Birmingham, and he leaves behind a legacy of love, integrity, and family. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the memories he leaves behind. Those who knew Walter will remember him for his kindness, quiet wisdom and for his hardworking spirit, love of laughter, and devotion to his family and unwavering devotion to those he held dear.