Willie James Taylor (Hot Rod) passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 20, 2025 at the age of 85 in Fairlawn, OH.

Willie was born in Selma, AL on 02/15/1940.  Willie moved from Alabama to Akron, OH for better economic opportunities,  he was proud yet humble of his many accomplishments,  especially becoming a welder and the president of his union.

Willie is preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, and daughter Lisa S. Taylor-Legerwood.

Left to cherish his memory are daughters, Sheila Shuttlesworth-Dearmon (Fairlawn, OH), Devonna Taylor (Hoover, AL) , Tane Taylor (Fairlawn, OH) , and Donna Nelson (Warren, OH)

Grandchildren: Charles Williams (Sheila's son) , Danea Nelson (Donna's daughter), Torean Nelson (Donna's daughter), Cameron Byrd (Lisa's son) and special friend Jean Johnson ("Baby Doll")

We will always carry your memory in our hearts (gone but not forgotten).