Taylor James Phillips

Taylor James Phillips, age 36, of Edmond, Oklahoma, passed away on Sunday, September 28, 2025. He was born in Oklahoma City on February 28, 1989.

From an early age, Taylor’s boundless energy and adventurous spirit made him seem like five little boys in one. He never slowed down, was always daring to try anything, and carried a deep love for his parents and family. His favorite ways to spend time were watching dirt bike races, rooting for his OU Sooners during football season, fishing, and spending time at the lake. Protective and loyal, he found the most joy in being surrounded by loved ones.

Taylor’s greatest pride and joy were his children—daughters Marley and Hartley and his son Casen. They held a very special place in his heart, and his longing to be near them was his biggest motivation in life.

Throughout his life, Taylor faced many challenges, yet he sought hope and healing. During his time at Sheepgate, he experienced a powerful renewal of faith and joy, overcoming struggles with addiction, anger, and depression. He found immense peace in God’s presence and left with a heart full of optimism, determined to build his future. Returning to Oklahoma to be closer to family, Taylor worked alongside his father in the construction trade, constantly striving to build a meaningful life.

Though his separation from his children weighed heavily on him, Taylor’s life remains a testimony of resilience, love, and faith. His passing is a shock and heartbreak to those who loved him, yet we take comfort in God’s Word:

“The righteous perishes, and no man lays it to heart; and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come.” —Isaiah 57:1

Often understood to mean that sometimes God takes someone home (through death) as an act of mercy – sparing them from future sin, temptation, or trials that could damage their spiritual life – we take comfort and solace in this scripture as our message from God that Taylor has been welcomed into the presence of our Father in Heaven, free from fear, pain, and heartbreak.

He will be fondly remembered as a son, grandson, brother, father, and friend. His love for his family and children will never be forgotten.

Taylor is survived by his parents James and Rashell Phillips of Guthrie; Jared and Randi Marley of Edmond; siblings Peyton Phillips (significant other Tina Beshears) of Edmond, Hayden Marley (significant other Connor Mayfield) of Oklahoma City, Paisley Marley of Edmond; his three beautiful children, Marley, Hartley, and Casen Phillips; and his grandparents, David and Anita Bell, Henry Phillips, Tim and Sharon Baker, Deb Davis, and Cathy Shelley.

He is preceded in death by his grandpa Howard Dean Shelley, grandma Debra Sue Birdwell, and baby sister Anita Rashell Phillips.

Services for Taylor Phillips will be at Mathews Funeral Home located at 601 South Kelly Avenue, Edmond, Oklahoma, on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 2:00 P.M.