Joe David Taylor

A Celebration of Life for Joe Taylor, 65, of Clinton, will be held at 2:30 p.m., Sunday, April 19, 2026, at The Social Event Center (formerly the First Presbyterian Church building). Family and friends are invited to gather, share memories, and celebrate Joe’s life together.

Joe David Taylor was born February 5, 1961, in Anadarko, Oklahoma, to Charles Taylor and Sally (Harpole) Taylor. He passed away Saturday, April 11, 2026, at his home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Joe was raised in Anadarko, where he graduated from high school in 1979. He went on to attend Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, earning his degree in 1982. In 1983, he made Clinton his home and, on May 13 of that year, married the love of his life, Janalyn Butler, in Arapaho, Oklahoma. Together, they built a life centered on family, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.

Joe dedicated many years of service to his community through his work. He was employed as a Parts Manager at DeLong Motors, David Howe Chevrolet, and Baker Hughes, where he was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to help others. Later, he continued serving his community at Clinton Public Schools as a custodian at Washington Elementary, where his friendly nature and warm smile made a lasting impression on both staff and students.

A proud member of the Delaware Indian Tribe, Joe was honored as a Tribal Elder. He carried deep respect for his heritage and found joy in sharing stories, humor, and wisdom with those around him. Known for his playful spirit, Joe was a natural prankster who loved to make others laugh. He will also be fondly remembered as the “designated tooth puller” for his children and grandchildren—a role he embraced with both humor and courage.

Joe had a deep appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time outdoors, camping, cooking for family gatherings, listening to music, and relaxing with his favorite classic mystery shows. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family, especially his grandchildren, who lovingly knew him as “Papa Joe.”

He is survived by his wife, Janalyn Taylor, of the home; his son, Curtis Taylor and wife Kallie of Oklahoma City; his daughter, Linsi Taylor Addington of Oklahoma City; and his beloved grandchildren, Minor Addington, Emerson Addington, and Brooks Taylor. Brother Charles Taylor of Houston Texas, and sister Carol Jared and husband Marc of Anadarko. He is also survived by sisters-in-law Kathy Neufeld and husband Rodney of Custer City, Sandra Teasley and husband Calvin of Weatherford, Susan Rollins and husband Rick of Buda, Texas; brother in law Rex Statser and wife, Debbie of Yukon; his father-in-law Wes Statser of Weatherford; a special aunt, Kay Schwartz of Weatherford; and a dear friend, Reggie Addington, along with a host of nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his mother-in-law, Mary Statser; his sister-in-law, Judy Taylor; and his father-in-law, Richard Butler and wife Jo Ann.

Joe will be remembered for his kindness, his humor, and the steady presence he brought to the lives of those who knew him. His legacy lives on in the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the family he cherished so deeply.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Clinton Mission House for the Homeless, P.O. Box 1522, Clinton, OK 73601 or the Clinton Public School Foundation, P.O. Box 822, Clinton, OK 73601.