Thomas Frank Taylor, affectionately known as Tom to his friends and family, passed away peacefully in Livonia, Michigan, on December 12, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on October 10, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, Tom was a man of integrity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones and community.

Tom's early years in Detroit set the stage for a life of service. The son of the late Tom Taylor and May Reddy, he grew up understanding the value of hard work and commitment. This foundation of character was evident in his enduring love story with his wife, Phyllis Taylor, whom he married on November 23, 1957. Together, they shared a remarkable journey filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect. Their partnership was a testament to their deep affection and the joy they found in each other's company.

The proud patriarch of a large and loving family, Tom is survived by his children Raymond (Patricia) Peterson, Thomas (Jean) Taylor, Tamara (Rick) Geisen, son-in-law, Ken Reiss, and daughter-in-law, Kathy Taylor. He is preceded in death by his children Cynthia Reiss, Michael Taylor, Zachary Taylor, and Leslie Taylor. He was a cherished grandfather to Jennifer, the late Rick, Danielle, Tamara, Nicole, Thomas III, Samantha, Sarah, Michael, Robert, Benjamin, Quentin, and Max, and great-grandfather to Alexandria, Emma, Rebel, Stephanie, Everett, Alissa, Quinn, Evolet, Nathan, Jayden, and Liv. His legacy continues to flourish with great-great-grandchildren Everett and Amelia. Tom also leaves behind his siblings Michael (Lori) Reddy, David (Carol) Reddy, Sheila (John) Rogers, and is preceded in death by Jack Reddy and Maureen Reddy. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.

Tom's career was as distinguished as it was impactful. He began as a police officer in the City of Wayne, eventually rising to the role of police chief in Stockbridge. His dedication to public safety and community welfare led him to become a police officer in Westland upon its establishment as a city. His natural leadership and commitment to public service continued as he served as County Commissioner and culminated in his election as Mayor of Westland, where he served from 1976 to 1982. Following his tenure as mayor, he became a salesman of deferred compensation plans. After that, he was appointed director of Thomas F. Taylor Towers, a role he filled until his retirement. Tom's contributions to the community were amplified through his significant role on the board of the Wayne/Westland Credit Union.

Tom's interests were as diverse as they were passionate. He was an avid reader and collector of books, a passion that led him to pen his own work, "The Golf Murders: A Readers' and Collectors' Guide to Golf Mystery Fiction," an Annotated and Illustrated Bibliography. His love for literature also birthed the Taylor Search Service, through which he helped many in their quest for rare and sought-after books. Tom's fascination with genealogy led him to delve deeply into his family's history, tracing the roots and branches of his lineage with great care.

Even in retirement, Tom's zest for life did not wane. He enjoyed traveling, playing golf, studying Japanese, weaving, and savoring the simple pleasure of coffee and crosswords with friends. He was renowned for his intelligence and work ethic, traits that endeared him to all who knew him. Tom's love for people and animals alike was a beacon of his generous spirit.

In every aspect of his life, Tom Taylor exemplified the best of what it means to be a community leader, a devoted family man, and a true friend. His legacy will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know him, and his memory will be treasured in the hearts of his family and the many lives he touched. Tom's journey through life was marked by an unwavering dedication to making the world a better place, and he will be deeply missed by all.

From the City of Westland Facebook page:

Message from Mayor Kevin Coleman:

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of the City of Westland's third Mayor, Thomas (Tom) F. Taylor.

Tom was born in 1936 and moved to Nankin Township when he was 11 years old, right after the end of World War II. After graduation Tom served in the Marine Corps.

Tom served as mayor from 1975-1982, a pivotal period in the city's early development. His leadership helped guide Westland as it matured from a newly incorporated city into a stable and growing community.

Mayor Taylor was the driving force behind the development of Taylor Towers, championing the vision of safe, affordable, and independent housing for Westland's senior residents. Equally significant was the financial sustainability model he advanced, which enabled the facility to remain solvent, adaptable, and well maintained over time. That model continues to support ongoing upgrades and long-term stability for Taylor Towers decades later.

Through foresight, steady leadership, and commitment to residents of all ages, Mayor Taylor left a lasting legacy. Taylor Towers stands as a living testament to his dedication to public service and to the City of Westland.

We express our condolences to Tom's wife Phyllis and his entire family.