Jason W. Taylor

Jason W. Taylor, 51, of Merriam, Kansas peacefully passed away January 1, 2021 at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission with his wife and mother by his side. He was born on March 15, 1969 at Research Hospital in Kansas City, MO to Judith Taylor and James Taylor. In 1987 he graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School. Then went on to attend Johnson County Community College from 1994 to 1995 where after receiving his Kansas State certification as an Emergency Medical Technician. Jason continued his education attending Bonner Springs EMS program and earning the Emergency Medical Technician Defibrillator certification in 2004.  He then attended Penn Valley Community College and became nationally certified as an Emergency Medical Technician Paramedic. From 2007 to 2008 Jason received the Mobile Intensive Care Technician Certification. He continued his education earning a number of certification in Kansas as well as Missouri.

Jason worked as a Lieutenant in Bonner Springs EMS for 17 years and working the rest of his Paramedic career in Edwardsville, KS until his death. He loved working in this field and enjoyed helping people when they needed it. He had a kind heart for helping others and was always concerned about anyone that seemed to be in distress. So many times, Jason had his wife pull over because they drove up to an accident or someone had fallen. Jason also had a passion for taking pictures of fires in the Kansas City area.

Jason fell in love and was married to the late Lisa Hellyer-Taylor on December 31, 2007. Lisa passed on August, 2011. He had two step-daughters Kaylin Hellyer from Arkadelphia, AR, and Jordan Hellyer from Royal, AR, along with 5 grandchildren Ryelin, Damien, Carson, Athena, and Anthony (AJ). He then found love again and married Penny Chavez-Taylor on December 05, 2019.  Having two step-sons, Benjamin Chavez from Shawnee, KS, and Michael (Brittney) Chavez from Lenexa, KS. One step-daughter Yolanda Chavez from Shawnee, KS and one granddaughter Luna.

Jason was a dedicated step-father, grandpa, and papa and was continuously there for his step-children when needed him. Always had a silly voice to greet his grandchildren and was loved by his step-children. Just a call away to help with transportation, babysitting, or moral support and advice when needed.

Jason had many interests, enjoying many musicians such as Camel, Eric Johnson, KISS, and Jimmy Hendrix. There were many stories and fun facts to tell about all kinds of music. There was also a special interest in watches (If Jason was missing at Walmart, check the watch isle). He loved his black and white checkerboard Van shoes. When Jason got a new pair, he would hit the shoe against his head like Sean Penn on Fast Times at Ridgemont High. He had a knack for reciting quotes from movies with his longtime friends. The family always knew when Jason was talking to his friend Derek and when he was quoteing Mr. Pink from Reservoir Dogs. He loved going to Tom's to eat barbeque, and to taste different cheeses Tom would make.

Christmas was one of his favorite holidays and started hanging Christmas lights at his mum's house when he was 18. Continuing the tradition years after for his own house. He also loved the 4th of July. That's when the little boy would come out to visit every tent and he loved to light the night sky with colorful fireworks.

Jason is survived by his wife Penny of Merriam, KS; his mother Judith Taylor also of Merriam, KS; father James Taylor of Chandler, AZ; brother Andrew (Tina) Taylor of Olathe, KS, and nephew Ryan Taylor.

A visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 23, 2021 at the Amos Family Funeral Home in in Shawnee, Kansas followed by a Celebration of Life at 11 a.m.

To watch a livestream of Jason’s service click here.

Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions we are limited to 45 people in the chapel at one time. Masks and social distancing will be required.