Thomas Taylor, Jr.

TAYLOR, Thomas Louis, Jr. - Age 52, of Spring City, TN formerly of Hartland, went to be in Heaven, April 17, 2021.  Memorial Visitation will be held Tuesday July 20, 2021 from 4-8 PM at Sharp Funeral Home, Fenton Chapel, 1000 Silver Lake Road, Fenton. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated 11:00 AM Wednesday, July 21, 2021 at St. Mary Magdalen Catholic Church, 2201 S. Old 23 Highway, Brighton. Fr. Paul Erickson, celebrant. Memorial Visitation before the mass will begin at 10 AM.

In lieu of flowers, those desiring to make contributions, please make them to the Thomas L. Taylor, Jr. Memorial Music Scholarship Fund, check's may be payable or you may also go to https://venmo.com/  @ TomTaylorFoundation

Thomas was born August 17, 1968 at Mt. Carmel Hospital in Detroit, the son of Thomas Louis Taylor, Sr. and Rosemary Jean Isabell.  Thomas never married nor had children.  His lifelong love of music was his main focus. In his elementary years he and his sister, Jennifer would put on musical shows at home, singing and dancing, much to his parents delight.

Thomas attended Hartland Schools through the 8th grade then went to Catholic Central in Redford with several neighborhood friends.  He was on the CC Ski Team and was invited to participate in the Junior Olympic competition at Pine Mountain in the Michigan Upper Peninsula. It was almost too cold to ski, quite a challenge to navigate the blue ice.  He graduated from CC in 1986.

He attended Michigan State University and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Telecommunications.  During his college years, his love of music blossomed. His dorm neighbor's wanted to form a band so Tom taught himself to play guitar and began writing his songs. His first band "The Front " played at locations in East Lansing.  They changed their band name to "dt's" and as their talent matured, they grew more popular in the area. Thomas wanted to play his original music and so they focused on perfecting those songs.  He was invited to sign a contract with Warner Chappell Music, Inc., an American music publishing company in CA for his lyrics.

The dt's band traveled cross-country playing at many venues from CA to NY and produced many CD's.  After a few years, Thomas went on as a Solo artist and recorded two CD's accompanied by his artist friends. Thomas' music told stories of life events depicting many varied emotions; heartbreak, sorrow, pride, devotion, innocence and deep love.

His many friends weren't always in close contact but when they renewed their friendships, they didn't skip a beat, reminiscing with laughter and warmth.  They always respected his talent and determination, and loved his dazzling smile, quick wit and humor.  He had a very special place in his heart for animals and had 2 black cats for a few years that he dearly loved.

Thomas is survived by his Father, Thomas, Sr.; Mother, Rosemary; Sister, Jennifer (Brian) Horton; Nephew, Gabriel; Niece, Lily; Aunt Cheryl Taylor; many aunts, uncles, cousins and his very special friend, Emily Rae.