Andre Taylor ‘64

Andre Joseph Taylor, 78, of Columbus, Ohio left behind an abundance of love and laughter on January 6, 2025.

He was born in Liege, Belgium in 1946, the eldest child of E.B. Taylor, Jr. and Josee Taylor (nee Bathole). The young family settled in Ohio when he was nearly 2 years old. Following his graduation from DeSales High School, Andre enlisted in the U.S. Air Force. He proudly served his country from 1965-1969.

His long career was a showcase of his phenomenal gift at forming relationships, his expert ability to make sales, and his encyclopedic knowledge of cars and car parts. His work included unforgettable years with Midvo (now Midwestern Auto Group), Wurth, and most recently, WASCO.

A lifelong lover of antiques and bartering, he was a wheel-and-dealer of the highest order. He traded a Cushman seat, two 1964 VW bug hubcaps, and 6 rubber bands to pay for this obituary.

He was never as happy as when he was able to give to others, whether playing Santa for families, offering a few bucks from the wad of cash in his pocket, or sharing a completely inappropriate joke. His greatest philanthropic passion shined through the annual benefit for Hospice he hosted for 20 years at this beloved Gatsby’s.

Andre is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by

~ his siblings, brothers Jan (Cheryl) and Dennis (Shelly), and their baby sister Valerie (Rich)

~ his children, son Jason (Sophia) and daughter Kim

~ his adored granddaughters Ally, Trinity, Zoe, Madison, and Grace

~ his nieces and nephews Jody, Jan Michael, Joey, Janelle, Anthony, Amanda, Joel, Josee, Shelby and Megan

His joy, jokes, and stories also live on through his extended family members, lifelong friends, and really, everyone with whom he ever interacted. He truly never met a stranger. As painful as this loss is for those who knew him, the greater loss would have been to not experience him at all.