WORCESTER-- Former Lowell Police Officer, James E. Taylor, 84 years old, of Worcester, died quietly, May 12th, at the Hermitage Nursing Home, in Worcester.
He was born in Lowell, on September 27, 1919, a son of the late John W. and Josephine (O’Neil) Taylor, and was a graduate of the Lowell Public School system.
Jimmy Taylor was well known in the City of Lowell. As a youth he fought in the Golden Gloves and became New England welter weight champion in the 1940’s. He fought over two hundred fights with only 2 technical knock outs in his fight career. He received one of those technical knock outs by Sugar Ray Robinson. He also became known was the fighter who stole Jack Kerouac’s girlfriend.
He worked in the CCC camp prior to WWII. He joined the Lowell Police Force after being honorably discharged from the Army. During his 30 year career as a Lowell Police officer he received 2 commendations for bravery. After retirement he went into business selling used cars in Lowell. He retired to Worcester twenty years ago where he lead a quite life with his friends and family.
He leaves his beloved friend and companion: Nada Alexander, of Worcester; daughter and son-in-law: Anne and James Pontuso, of Charlottesville, VA; a son: Michael Taylor, of Whitman; grandchildren: Hilary Taylor of Whitman, Rodney, Kelly, and Nicholas Taylor, of Florida, Susan Baker, of St. Louis, MO; and Jimmy Baker, of Austin TX; as well as his nieces and nephews.
He was the father of the late Ellen, Mark, and Shawn Taylor.
Friends may call from 9 to 10 AM Saturday, May 15th, at the MAHONEY FUNERAL HOME, 187 Nesmith Street, (Rte. 38). A Funeral Service will be held at 10 AM at the funeral home. Burial in St. Patrick Cemetery. Donations in his memory may be made to the Lowell Police Department Benevolent Fund.