08/20/2026
It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of another beloved church member, Bluford Taylor Jr. He was a cherished part of our church family and will be missed. Please keep his family and loved ones in your thoughts and prayers.
Bluford Thomas Taylor, Jr. (June 28, 1941 - August 19, 2026)
Bluford Thomas Taylor, Jr., beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and longtime native of Holmes County, passed away peacefully on August 19, 2026, at the age of 85. He was born on June 28, 1941, to Bluford Thomas Taylor, Sr. and Lou Ethel Taylor.
Bluford was a graduate of Belzoni High School and spent much of his life in Holmes County, where he became known and loved by so many. He had a gift for making everyone around him feel special. Always wearing a smile and carrying himself with genuine Southern charm, Bluford had a way of making a simple conversation feel like a visit with an old friend. His kindness, humor, generosity, and warm personality left an impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.
Bluford married the love of his life, Leslie Renée Taylor, on October 18, 1970. They shared 47 years of marriage and built a life centered around their family, faith, and community. His family was his greatest pride and joy.
A man of many talents and interests, Bluford was never afraid to try something new. He worked as an administrative staff member for Governor Cliff Finch and was also a businessman and entrepreneur involved in many different trades and ventures throughout his life. If there was something he didn't know how to do, he had a remarkable way of making you believe he could or he would simply find someone who could. His resourcefulness, determination, and willingness to help others were hallmarks of his character.
Bluford proudly served in the United States Marine Corps. His adventurous spirit was evident from an early age. In 1953, he attended the Third National Boy Scout Jamboree at Irvine Ranch in Southern California. During the jamboree, he had the opportunity to see notable guests, including Vice President Richard Nixon, Bob Hope, Debbie Reynolds, and Jimmy Stewart, memories he carried with him throughout his life.
Bluford was a devoted Mississippi State Bulldogs fan and especially enjoyed attending football games and tailgating with friends. He cherished the fellowship, laughter, and traditions that came with each game day.
Above all, Bluford loved the Lord and his family. He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Lexington, where his faith was an important part of his life. His love for his family was evident in the way he cared for them, encouraged them, and celebrated their lives and accomplishments.
Bluford is survived by his daughter, Leslie Taylor Spell; his son, Bluford Thomas Taylor III (Jenny); his only grandchild, Annabeall Taylor Spell; step-grandchildren, Kara Rhodes, Billy Rhodes, and Joseph Edwards; his brother, Kenneth Blair Taylor; two nieces; four nephews; and a host of extended family members and dear friends who will miss his smile and his stories.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leslie Renée Taylor; his sister, Betty Lou Taylor; and his parents, Lou Ethel Taylor and Bluford Thomas Taylor, Sr.
Bluford leaves behind a legacy not only in the family he loved so dearly, but also in the countless lives he touched. He will be remembered for his warm smile, generous spirit, love of family and friends, devotion to his faith, and the special way he made everyone feel welcome and valued.
He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Funeral Services
Visitation will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. at Mortimer-Southern Funeral Home, 100 Pine Street, Lexington, Mississippi. A funeral service will follow at First Presbyterian Church, 103 Church Street, Lexington, Mississippi. Interment to follow at Pinecrest Cemetery in Tchula, Mississippi.
