Jonathan Taylor

Jonathan was born near Nyack, New York to Kathrine Kressmann Taylor and Elliot Taylor.

He loved being outdoors, and his educational and professional career dovetailed into that love.

Jonathan earned a BA in Anthropology at the University of Arizona and his Master’s Degree in Environmental Science at Washington State University. His PhD in Renewable Natural Resources was earned at the University of Arizona in Tucson, Arizona.

Some of Jonathan’s professional career was spent working for the US Geological Survey doing social science research. He also taught at several universities and worked at the Chicago Field Museum.

Jonathan and Suzanne met in Tucson on a blind date at the end of October 1967. They were married at Catalina United Methodist Church on December 21, 1967. Not a long courtship! Jonathan and Suzanne joined the Religious Society of Friends in 1971. He served as a clerk of Fort Collins Friends Meeting and as a member of Ministry and Counsel.

Jonathan and Suzanne lived in Tucson from 1978–1984, where they served Pima Monthly Meeting in many ways, including being on the clearness committee for Cliff and Sharon Pfeil’s marriage. They led the FWCC Quaker youth pilgrimage to England and Northern Ireland in 1992.

Jonathan was on the continuing committee for IMYM and served in many roles in other meetings for over 40 years. After he and Suzanne retired to Tucson in 2006, he served on the Peace and Social Concerns Committee for nearly a decade and served on the Ministry and Oversight Committee.

Jonathan delighted in working with young friends and was a Friendly Adult Presence (FAP) at IMYM for a number of years, sharing his knowledge and wonder of the natural world.

Jonathan is survived by his wife Suzanne, children Caitlin and Brennan and grandchildren Lilith and Crispin.

Jonathan lives in our hearts and memories to this day.

A blended memorial service for Jonathan was held at the Pima Monthly Meetinghouse, with family and friends from Tucson, Arizona; Austin, Texas; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and other places around the world joining in Worship.

Approved at Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business 12th day, Fifth Month, 2024