In Loving Memory of

Willie Edward Taylor

March 30, 1956 – May 17, 2026

With loving hearts and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Willie Edward Taylor, affectionately known to many as “Willie Fairley”, who departed this earthly life on May 17, 2026, at Orlando Regional Medical Center.

Willie was born on March 30, 1956, in Lake Wales to the late Marie Griffin and John Wesley Taylor. He was adopted by the late Betsy and Jack Fairley and moved to Benson where he met Veronica Holiday and they conceived three daughters. He later met Susan Barnes in the Raleigh area and together they conceived one daughter. After years in the Carolinas, Willie decided to move back to Florida where he met the most mild-spoken woman, Sharon, and once again became a devoted family man. He later made Orlando his home where he met Angelica Villanueva, and together they had two beautiful daughters and one son whom he was in the process of adopting. Residing at 626 Indiana Street, Willie shared the last years of his life surrounded by family and loved ones.

Willie attended South Johnston High School in Four Oaks. He was known for his caring spirit and strong presence. Willie had a talent like no other when it came to working on small engines. He loved working with his team at Small Engine and Repair for more than 13 years. He was also very musically inclined and deeply enjoyed music. His family often said he could make a guitar sing. Whether working on engines or playing the bass guitar, Willie’s passion and talent always stood out. He loved music, loved to DJ, and “Trail” was the nickname many knew him by. Willie never met a stranger, and those who knew him will remember his wisdom, humor when he chose to show it, and his willingness to help others

whenever he could.

He leaves to cherish his precious memories his  daughters: Latonya Holiday-Cozart (Brian Cozart) of Willow Spring, Presaunica Holiday Banks (Damon Banks) of Siler City, Marie Tisha Holiday Dunston of Charlotte, Kimistry Barnes Valdez (Oscar Valdez) of Dallas, Maria Villanueva and Allicia Villanueva, both of the home.

He also leaves behind his sons: Trever Harmon of Winter Park and Trev’air Villanueva of the home.

The children he helped raise — Erick Mitchell, Derik Mitchell, and Iris Mitchell — held a very special place in his heart and were loved deeply by him.

Willie is also survived by his sisters: Missionary Ruby Lee Mackey (Overseer Harry Mackey) of Fort Pierce, Elder Gloria Bekele (Omari Bekele) of Leesburg, Flora Taylor of Fort Pierce, Mary Taylor of Winter Garden, and Barbara Taylor-Davis (Dennis Davis) of Orlando.

His brothers include John Wesley Taylor Jr. of Ohio, Pastor Willie Frank Taylor (Apostle Gwendolyn Taylor) of Elgin, Roger Hudson of Vero Beach, and Darrel Mackey of Fort Pierce.

Willie was preceded in death by two grandsons: Brian Cozart Jr. and Samaad Nadik Williams.

He leaves behind 10 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever treasure his memory.

Though he has departed from this earthly life, the love Willie shared and the memories he created will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His legacy of

working on small engines, DJing, family, music, and compassion will never be forgotten.