Jesse Clarence Taylor Jr

Jesse “JC” Taylor Jr. was born in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, on May 26, 1948, to the late Jesse Clarence Taylor Sr. and Ethel Mae Pilson Taylor Craig. He was the fifth of six siblings growing up in Avonmore, PA. Jesse was baptized with his siblings in the First Baptist Church of Avonmore at an early age.

Jesse graduated from Kiski Area High School in 1967. He was a star running back and defensive back for the Kiski Cavaliers. He was a tremendous leader, earning eight varsity letters.

As a senior, Jesse was co-captain of the football team and a member of the 300 Club. In 2010, he was inducted into the Kiski Area Sports Hall of Fame, recognized for his accomplishments in football, track & field, and wrestling.

In 1968, Jesse was united in marriage to Yvonne Whaley. From this union, his first daughter, Lisa Taylor, was born. Jesse earned an athletic scholarship to play football at the University of Cincinnati. While in college, he started as a fullback and was affectionately known as “Mus” aka Muscle Magert as a Bearcat from 1967 to 1971. He loved playing football and shared his passion for the sport and many memories with fellow teammates who became lifelong friends.

In 1971, Jesse was drafted into the National Football League and was a 10th-round draft pick by the Washington Redskins; he played under The Hall of Fame Coach George Allen. In 1972, he became a running back for the San Diego Chargers, leading the division in kickoff return yards. He earned the nickname “The Unknown Wonder” playing for the San Diego Chargers. After leaving San Diego, he returned to Pittsburgh, where he played alongside the 1974 Pittsburgh Steelers training camp legends. His NFL career was a lifelong accomplishment, and Jesse will be remembered as a truly gifted athlete.

In 1980, Jesse was united in marriage to Dorinda Smith. They shared three daughters from this union, Tiffany, Jennifer, and Natalie. Jesse was devoted to supporting his wife and children. He raised his family in Sewickley, PA, where he worked for the Pittsburgh International Airport and Sewickley Car Store. Jesse was an active community member by helping to manage the historical Walter Robinson Sewickley American Legion Post 450, a gathering place for blacks in southwestern PA. Jesse was an avid lover of all sports, held a passion for golf, and participated in many annual golf tournaments and University of Cincinnati Alumni events. He was also a jazz enthusiast. But above all, his heart and joy were spending time with his four grandchildren, Rome, David, Milana, and Kendi.

Jesse went home to Glory on Saturday evening, July 1, 2023. In spirit, he joins his three sisters, Georgianna Covington, Jessica Stevenson, and Deborah Taylor. He leaves behind to cherish his memories his sister Bessie L. Sewell and brother John William Taylor; his daughters Lisa, Tiffany, Jennifer, and Natalie; grandchildren, nieces; nephews, cousins, and many special friends.

The Taylor family extends our sincerest gratitude to all who have offered love and prayers during the passing of our loved one. May God bless each of you

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