Obituary
William Aitken Taylor

William Aitken Taylor, age 89, of Shotts, Lanarkshire, Scotland, passed away peacefully on New Year’s Eve, 2025, in the comfort of his daughter’s home in North Carolina. Born on April 19, 1936, in Glasgow, Scotland, William—known to many as Bill—lived a life marked by dedication, loyalty, and deep love for his family. A lifelong and passionate supporter of the Rangers Football Club, Bill also proudly followed Duke University basketball, embracing both teams with equal enthusiasm. Bill spent much of his working life in the Florida hotel and tourism industry, where he was known for his strong work ethic and commitment. Living near the coast deepened his lifelong love of the ocean, where he found great joy swimming in the sea—an activity that brought him both peace and happiness. A testament to his vitality and determination, Bill was practicing yoga and swimming laps regularly up until December 5, still out swimming people half his age, reflecting his discipline, resilience, and zest for life. Bill is survived by his beloved wife of 67 years, Ada Bryson Taylor; his daughter, Julie Fritz; his son, Stephen Taylor (Barbara Taylor); his grandchildren, Leslie Mauney (William Mauney), Kirsten Padden (Thomas Padden), Stephen Taylor Jr., and Alex Taylor; and his great-granddaughter, Kennedy Mauney. Bill’s family will be returning him home to Scotland in April, where he will be laid to rest. A Celebration of Life will be held in his hometown of Shotts, surrounded by friends and family who loved him — and in true Bill fashion, there may be whisky involved.