Charles "Captain Bill" Taylor, Sr.

Charles “Captain Bill” William Taylor Sr. December 17, 1954 – October 19, 2025

Charles “Captain Bill” William Taylor Sr., age 70, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away on October 19, 2025. He was born on December 17, 1954, in Laurel, MS, to the late Travis Olyn Taylor Sr. and Annie Elnora Tillman. 

Captain Bill was a kind and caring man who devoted his life to his family, faith, and hard work. A proud tugboat captain, he spent many years on the water doing what he loved most. He was a true Christian man who knew the Bible inside and out, and his “old school” values of love, loyalty, and integrity guided every part of his life.

He dearly loved his wife and children and always put his family first. Captain Bill was a giver, a caretaker, and a steady presence who made sure those he loved were always taken care of. He enjoyed fishing, shrimping, and finding peace out on the water. He also had a lifelong passion for working on cars, especially old hot rods, and looked forward every year to Cruisin’ the Coast on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.

Captain Bill will be remembered as a loving husband, father, brother, and friend—a man who touched many lives with his generosity, strength, and heart.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda White Taylor, and children: Shonda Cormier of Gulfport, Charles "Chase" Taylor Jr. of Gulfport, and Jeremy White of Richton. The joy of his life can be seen through his grandchildren, Ethan Taylor, Aryssah Taylor, Blake Taylor, Taylor Keith Taylor and Dylan Taylor, as well as many great-grandchildren who have been nurtured by his loving spirit.

Bill was also part of a large and supportive family. His siblings include Travis (Celia) Taylor Jr., Tracie Burnette, Jimmy (Crystal) Miles, Tammie (BB) Kates, Ricky Miles, and Chris (Randi) Powell, all residing in Gulfport and one brother-in-law; Wendell Crumb of New Mexico, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a host of family and friends who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Hope Taylor, who left an indelible mark on his heart, and his parents, father Travis Taylor Sr. and mother Annie Tillman Powell. Also preceding him were his sisters, Trudy Crumb and Lynda Sue Ray, all of whom he carried in his memory and love.

Captain Bill Taylor lived life to the fullest and created countless cherished memories for those around him. His legacy will endure through the lives he touched and the love he shared. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew him.

Trinity Funeral Services is honor to serve the Taylor Family in a time of need. We ask that you remember them in your thoughts and prayers.