Howard William Taylor, 65, passed away at his home in DeLand, Florida on Saturday, August 26, 2023. His sudden passing has devastated his family and friends. Howard was born in Pittsburgh, PA to William (Bill) Taylor and Jean (Oliver)Taylor (deceased) and raised in Ashland, KY. He graduated from Paul Blazer High School (Ashland, KY) in 1976 and from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University as a pilot in 1980. During High School he worked for General Tires and Armco Steel. After college, he was a flight instructor and pilot for several small airlines until 1985 when he was hired at American Airlines where he was a Senior Captain until he retired in 2018 after 33 years, primarily flying the South American routes.

Over the years, Howard was a big sports enthusiast as a spectator and a participant. He played annual competitive baseball tournaments, competed regularly in competitive shooting competitions, and was great with photography and computers. He loved the Steelers, Pirates and Penguins and any sport his nieces and nephews were playing.

Besides his father, he is survived by his sister, Kelley Taylor Letter (David), his nephew, David Letter, II (Mandy) and their son Bryson, his nephew, Andrew Letter (Katherine and Logan), and his niece, Elizabeth Letter Fuller (Griffin) and their son Derek and daughter Jayden. He is also survived by his aunt, Ethel McCann, other close family members, as well as a multitude of friends that he considered family.

Howard was also very active in his niece and nephews lives throughout the years. There wasn't anything he wouldn't do for them, other family members, or friends.

Howard was the rock for everyone and was willing to help with anything or go places at a moment's notice. We were all better for knowing Howard.

A visitation viewing will be held at Lohman Funeral Home (DeLand) on Tuesday evening, September 5th from 5:00 to 9:00 pm. A Church Service will be held at First Presbyterian Church (DeLand) on Wednesday, September 6th at 12:00 pm. Interment will be held at Hollywood Cemetery in Orange City directly following the Church Services.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to St. Jude's Children Hospital or a charity of your choice.