Obituaries

Curtis L. Taylor, Jr. of New Rochelle, N.Y., passed away on December 25, 2025.

Mr. Taylor was born in Martinsville, Virginia to Curtis L. Taylor, Sr. and Mollie Hairston. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his wife, Vivian M Taylor. Curtis was the first Black Fire Captain in New Rochelle, NY and served the fire department for 25 years. In 2008, he became the first Black Fire Chief of the village of Pelham. He also owned a painting business for over 20 years. His legacy of service and leadership lives on through his family and community.

Curtis is survived by his mother, Mollie Hairston, two daughters, Corrine Taylor-Chin (Brandon) and Candice Taylor, granddaughter, Kaila, three sisters, Carolyn, Charlene and Clishia, two brothers, Antoine and Clifford.

A visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 12:00 to 1:00 PM at Collins Funeral Home, 30 Riverside Hwy, Bassett, VA with a Celebration of Life Service to be at 1:00 PM. Private Burial will follow.

Collins Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Taylor family.