James E. Taylor, Sr., age 78, of Holyoke, passed away on Wednesday, April 26, 2017 at Baystate Medical Center, surrounded by his loving family. He was born in Americus, GA, son of the late Russell and Ruby (Smith) Taylor and was a graduate of Holyoke High School. James retired from the Village Commons in South Hadley, where he worked as a Custodian for many years. He was a member of the Bethlehem Baptist Church in Holyoke. James loved fishing, golfing and spending time with his family. He was a former singer with The Crescents. James is survived by his wife, Roseline (Davis) Taylor of Holyoke; two sons, James E. “J.T.” Taylor, Jr, and his wife Maria of Holyoke, Tony Taylor and his wife Mary of Springfield; three daughters, Carol L. Kelly and her husband David of Springfield, Trudy Taylor and Brenda Taylor, both of Holyoke. He also leaves 14 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. Besides his parents, James was predeceased by a daughter Barbara. A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday at 12:00 noon in the Bethlehem Baptist Church, 304 Elm St. Holyoke, followed by burial in Forestdale Cemetery West, Rock Valley Road, Holyoke. Calling hours will be held in the church prior to the service from 10:00am to 12:00. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of James to Shriners Hospital for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.