Our History

Taylor Funeral Home, Ltd. is more than just a funeral home for us -it is the anchor for the entrepreneurial spirit that drives us. We are constantly expanding and seeking new challenges, and we are proud to serve not only as caregivers but also as a positive force in our community.

Born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Charles B. Taylor came to Chicago in 1948. After graduating from high school, he attended Prairie State College for 3 years, and shortly thereafter received a Graduate Certificate from Worsham College of Mortuary Science. In addition, he was also awarded a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Jackson State College, Jackson, Mississippi.

In 1963, Mr. Taylor founded Taylor Funeral Home, Ltd.; the funeral home allowed him to serve his community not only as an advocate but also as an employer. The business grew steadily and allowed him to also found Thrifty Printing in 1975; after continued growth, Mr. Taylor also acquired Oak Hill Cemetery Association in Gary, Indiana in 1982. The Cemetery spans approximately 60 acres, and Mr. Taylor used this space to build a mausoleum containing five hundred crypts. Another Taylor Funeral Home location was acquired later that year, providing the families served by Taylor Funeral Homes with unparalleled resources. In addition to serving his community, Mr. Taylor proudly served his state and country, serving in the Illinois National Guard for 22 years, finally retiring as First Sergeant. He also obtained his pilot's license and has flown for more than 25 years. Mr. Taylor is married to his devoted wife, Mrs. Leyeuna A. Taylor. Mrs. Taylor is also a Licensed Funeral Director; together, she and Charles have 2 children, Margo and Nicholas Taylor, both of whom are Licensed Funeral Directors. Mr. Taylor is proud member of the following organizations:

• Member of Illinois National Funeral Directors Association
• Member of National Funeral Directors Association
• Member of National Funeral Directors Pilots Association
• Member of National Select Morticians Association
• Board Member of National Baptist Convention College Board (Nashville, TN)
• Chairman of the Board - Progressive Baptist Church (25 years)
• Treasurer of T.E. Brown Apartments, 3600 South Wells. A Treasurer, Mr. Taylor was responsible for orchestrating and advising through the completion of the 117 unit building (Section 202-1976) in honor of the late Dr. T.E. Brown, former pastor.
• Member, Financial Advisory Board, Greater Metropolitan M.B. Church (30 years)
• Member, Board of Youth Commanders Organization Shriners International (2 years)
• Member, Advisory Board - Paul L. Dunbar Public High School (15 years)
• Sponsor, Charles S. Dennen Public School (5 years)
• Member, Alumni Association, Worsham College of Mortuary Science
• Honorary Supporter and past Potentate, Educational and Youth Activities - International Shriners (20 years)
• Past Master of Hiram Lodge #12 F. & A. M., Illinois
• Past Patron of Hiram Chapter #91 F. & A. M., Illinois
• Member Western Consistory #28 F. & A. M., Illinois
• Grand Inspector General of 33rd United Supreme Council