It is with profound sorrow that we mourn the passing of Taylor Durkee, who died yesterday morning at the age of 27. Taylor was a son, brother, partner, friend, and a one-of-a-kind original whose life touched everyone he knew.

I first met Taylor over a dozen years ago when he was just 14, and he quickly became part of my heart. These past hours have been some of the saddest of my life as we grapple with the reality that his brilliant future will never unfold. Taylor was a creative spirit with extraordinary talent in art, music, and writing. He had just earned a place in the UCSD Global Health Initiative Program and dreamed of becoming an international lawyer advocating for human rights. His potential was limitless.

Taylor was also hilariously witty and mischievously unpredictable. His friendships with Sam Lees—whom he fondly called “Batman and Batman Sam”—and Casey Stone reflected his boundless energy and individuality. As a loving partner, he shared deep joy with Christina and her two children, cherishing every moment together. Photos of them radiate pure happiness and love.

Above all, Taylor was devoted to his family. His bonds with each family member brought him immense joy, and he often expressed gratitude and happiness in correspondence with his mother. He was courageous, honest, and lived life loud and fast, feeling every moment deeply and loving it fully.

We invite all who loved Taylor to join his Celebration of Life on Saturday, March 18th, 2017, at 9:45 a.m. at the North Coast Calvary Chapel, 1350 Poinsettia Lane, Carlsbad, CA, near the lion fountain. A potluck will follow, where friends and family can share memories, laughter, and the joy Taylor brought into our lives.