Derrick L. Long Taylor

Today, we gather to celebrate the life and legacy of Derrick Long Taylor, 37, of Chicago, Illinois, who peacefully went to be with the Lord on May 15, 2026, at Christ Advocate Hospital. Derrick was born on November 6, 1988, in Chicago, Illinois, to his loving mother, Lori Long. Later in life, he was blessed with two additional loving parents, Bishop James and Mia Taylor, who welcomed Derrick into their home, their hearts, and their family. He became the perfect addition that completed their family circle.

Derrick grew up in Chicago, Illinois, and graduated from Thornton Township High School, where he earned a prestigious Golden Apple Scholarship with aspirations of becoming a teacher. After participating in the program, Derrick discovered a passion for business and management and decided to pursue a different career path. He attended Saint Xavier University, where he studied business management and later founded Long Last Cleaner. Following college, Derrick worked in several management positions with well-known Fortune 500 companies. At the time of his passing, he faithfully served as a Team Leader with Panera Bread. Derrick accepted Christ at an early age at Partners N Praise Ministries of Harvey, Illinois. He loved the Lord and expressed that love through music. Derrick had a passion for singing and shared his gift in multiple community choirs throughout the Chicago area. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Derrick loved life. He had a passion for hosting parties, cooking, singing, fashion, family, friends—and especially Christmas. If you knew Derrick, then you already know Christmas for him started before Thanksgiving—and he would proudly remind everybody of it!

Derrick leaves to cherish his precious memories: his mother, Lori Long; his parents, Bishop James and Mia Taylor; his siblings, Crystal Long, Marcus Long, Latesha Long, Danielle Long-Taylor (Steven), Keyera Williams, James Taylor III (Kenyotta), and Malcolm Taylor (Alicia); his godbrothers, Demetrius Dunbar Jr., Jeremy Frierson, and Jovan Ricker; his godsister, Brandi Ricker; his grandparents, Michelle Edmondson, John Edmondson, Dorothy Alexander, and Bishop James Taylor Sr. (Marsha); his nephews, Marvin, Immanuel, Jahleel, Zamarion, Miji, Shai, Isaiah, Joshua, Kashon, James IV, & Ziyair; his nieces, Elizabeth, Chemdiah, Raphaela, Jamie, Kaycee, Melody, Zoey & Erie; along with a loving host of cousins, aunties, uncles, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Derrick will always be remembered for his kind heart, generous spirit, infectious personality, and his unmatched ability to “read people” with accuracy and humor. He brought joy, laughter, honesty, and love into every room he entered. Though our hearts are heavy, we thank God for the time we shared with Derrick. His love, laughter, and unforgettable spirit will remain with us forever.

Mia Taylor

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