Taylor, Errol D. 1940-2025 St. Joseph, Mo.
Errol Doak Taylor, a devoted husband, father, and esteemed Missouri attorney, passed away peacefully at home in St. Joseph, at the age of 84. Born Aug. 21, 1940, in St. Joseph, Errol was the son of Veda (Doak) and Joseph Taylor.
A proud graduate of Central High School’s Class of 1958, he went on to earn his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Missouri in 1963 and his Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri School of Law in 1966. While in law school, he was inducted into Phi Delta Phi, an international legal honor society.
Errol began his career in public service as First Assistant General Counsel for the Missouri Public Service Commission, serving from 1966 to 1970. He later returned to his hometown to join the firm of Brown, Douglas & Brown, where he spent the bulk of his legal career serving the St. Joseph community. Known for his sharp legal mind, ethical standards, and calm presence in the courtroom, Errol was respected by peers and clients alike.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Errol was deeply involved in civic life. He was a proud member and past president of Rotary Club #32 in St. Joseph, where he devoted time to community service and scholarship initiatives. Though he was a lifelong Missouri resident, he and his wife enjoyed many years of sunshine and good company in Naples, Florida.
Errol lived life fully and with enthusiasm – from his days as a high school diver, to years spent on the golf course, cheering on the Mizzou Tigers, and eventually enjoying time as a fisherman and boater. One of his proudest adventures was the 2015 boating journey he and Sherry took aboard their Sea Tiger III, charting the famed Great Loop with their beloved cat, Dixie Bell, and making memories on the water that became treasured stories for years to come.
Errol shared over 60 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Sherry. Together they built a life centered on love, laughter, and family.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Veda and Joseph Taylor; his brothers, Greg and Lynn; and his cherished children, Sean and Andrea.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Sherry Taylor; his brother, Brian Taylor (Phyllis); sister-in-law, Linda Taylor; loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Taylor and Brooke Wood.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Mizzou Scholarship Fund in Errol’s memory. Gifts can be made online at www.giving.missouri.edu/scholarships or mailed to: Mizzou Advancement, 407 Reynolds Alumni Center, Columbia, MO 65211.
Private Farewell Services, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory. Interment Memorial Park Cemetery. The room will be open to the public 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Meierhoffer Funeral Home & Crematory.
Online guest book and obituary at www.meierhoffer.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.
