The Shepherd University Department of Athletics is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hall of Famer James L. Taylor on September 7. 

Taylor, a 1993 Shepherd Athletic Hall of Fame Inductee, excelled as a two-way end for the Shepherd football team from 1955-58 as the program's first African American football player. He was a member of the undefeated 1955 teams and garnered All-WVIAC honors in 1958. He also played on the Shepherd men's basketball team for one season. He went on to a successful career as an educator and coach in Jefferson County.

"We were so disappointed to hear of the passing of James Taylor," said Shepherd University Vice President for Athletics Chauncey Winbush.  "Jim was a pioneer at our university and we would like to express our sincere condolences to his family, friends and teammates.  Jim Taylor will never be forgotten for the impact that he made on our university and athletics program."

The Journal Obituary