City mourns passing of local activist, noted poet Jeffrey ‘Jeff’ Taylor

He was the father of three and husband of Ward 5 Councillor Ariane ‘Ari’ Taylor

By Steve Freker

The news of the passing of a well-known Malden community activist, talented poet and steadfast supporter of the arts shocked and saddened residents as the month of March came to a close: the death of Jeffrey “Jeff” Taylor on March 22. The father of three young daughters and a friend to many in Malden, Jeff Taylor was also the husband of Malden Ward 5 Councillor Ariane “Ari” Taylor.

Mr. Taylor was recalled as a steady voice who often spoke on a number of different causes in his years as a resident. Ward 3 Councillor Amanda Linehan called him a true friend and supporter of all Malden residents “who maybe just needed an ear or some other type of assistance of any kind.

“Words fail me…when I contemplate we won’t have him with us anymore,” Councillor Linehan said in offering a moment of silence at last week’s City Council meeting.

Longtime Ward 8 Councillor Jadeane Sica posted the following message on her Facebook account.

“In times of tragedy, the strength of the Malden community shines brightest. As our fellow City Council member Ariane Taylor mourns the unexpected loss of her beloved husband Jeff, we must come together to offer our support. With three young children – Emily, Charlotte, and Phoebe – now facing the devastating reality of life without their father, we must rally around them in their time of need.

“As a community, we have the power to provide comfort and assistance to those who are struggling. Whether through donations, acts of kindness, or simply offering a shoulder to lean on, every gesture of support makes a difference. Let us show Ari and her family that they are not alone, that we stand beside them in their grief, and that we are here to help them through this difficult time.

“Please consider supporting the Taylor family as they navigate this challenging journey. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and show our solidarity with those in crisis. Let us demonstrate the true spirit of community by coming together to uplift and assist our neighbors in their time of need.

“A donation platform has been set up on mealtrain.com in The Taylor Family name. It can be accessed through a website set up at the following address: www.welovethetaylorfamily.com“

As of Wednesday evening, the donation site had raised over $44,000 for the Taylor Family, surpassing its initial goal of $40,000. Many donors had also booked/donated full future meals for the Taylor Family.

Funeral arrangements for Mr. Taylor are being handled by Spadafora Funeral Home, 865 Main St., Malden.