Ja'Quae Taylor

It is with an essence of humor, and a smidgen of disbelief, that we announce the final bow of Ja'Quae Taylor, Camden, NJ's most loved drummer and arguably the world's most optimistic driver. Ja Quae, as he was known to friends and family, was born on November 8, 1986, and was raised by his doting grandmother, Pearl, in the heart of Camden. He allowed his infectious laughter and unending zest for life to permeate our lives until June 3, 2024.

Ja Quae didn't just live life; he played it like a drum, with a rhythm all his own. His talent for drumming was legendary in the Camden school district and beyond, even inspiring the Paulsboro High School drum line. His unique life-of-the-party personality was matched only by his culinary prowess. Yes, he was a man who loved to cook, and you couldn't tell him otherwise. To him, the kitchen wasn't just a place to prepare food; it was a stage where he performed his culinary symphonies.

His sense of comedic timing was as impeccable as his drum beats. Whether he was crafting a delicious meal or spinning tall tales, his humor and compassion were always on full display. He had a gift of the gab, and that man could weave a story so believable that even the most skeptical would find themselves nodding along in agreement. He also held a special place in his heart for his cousin Donte Taylor, with whom he shared countless weekends battling it out on the PlayStation.

Ja Quae was a man of many hats, literally and figuratively. His favorite roles included being a tax consultant and working at the airport base out of Atlanta, proving that his talents far exceeded the drumline. Despite battling leukemia, his spirit remained unbroken, choosing to continue his treatment in New Jersey, where he had the unwavering support of his Aunt Robins.

He was a die-hard Celtics fan and a Colts enthusiast, much to the chagrin of some of his friends. But the achievement he was most proud of was earning his driver's license. Anyone who knew Ja Quae knew that his driving skills were... let's just say unique. But that never dampened his spirits. He drove life in the fast lane, with a smile on his face.

Ja Quae is survived by his father, Burtrick Taylor; his sister, Nicole Wilcox; his brothers, Chris, John, William, Jamil, NaJere; his sisters, Chase, Adaira, Kiarra, Shamere; his children, Ja’Niyah and Ja’Zohn; and his grandmother, Pearl. He was preceded in death by his mother, Kimmese Wilcox. But to remember Ja Quae is to remember his laughter, his love, and his unique approach to life. So, as we bid him farewell, let's do so with a smile, just as he would have wanted.

We encourage friends and family to share their favorite memories and photos of Ja Quae on his memorial page. His life was a symphony of laughter, love, and compassion, and we invite you to add your notes to his melody.