October 31, 1951 – December 22, 2024

James Howard Taylor was born on October 31, 1951 in Hollywood, California. James moved to Everson, Washington in 1975 and started a family. He later went to school to become a sound engineer. James ran his own successful painting company for years. He also taught himself to play the guitar. He performed, singing and playing guitar for many years in Bellingham, Seattle, and San Juan Island.

In the early 2000s he began his recovery journey from alcohol. He went back to school and earned a degree to help others with substance abuse. He volunteered much of his own time in the substance/abuse/dependence field. James had a dream of moving to San Juan Island to be closer to the Orca Whales. In 2014 he made his dream come true. He went back to school at age 63. He obtained his Marine Naturalist degree at Friday Harbor Laboratories. He started working and volunteering at Lime Kiln State Park on San Juan Island. He loved giving lighthouse tours and teaching people about Orcs Whales. He had a deep love and respect for them. He played many shows at the Lighthouse as well. James was known for his kindness, his musical talents, his love for his children and his sense of humor.

He is survived by his children Claire & Gabe Taylor, grandson, Lukas Kastelic, granddaughter, Fern Gates, his sister Robin Lang, his niece and nephews, and many extended relatives in Southern California. His celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, March 29 from 4:00-8:00 at Lime Kiln State Park on San Juan Island.