Johnnie Taylor

Johnny L “Peewee” Taylor, a man whose laughter could light up the darkest room, has completed his final curtain call on October 9, 2025. Born in the humble town of McNary, Arizona, to Lunzel Taylor and Mary L Nichelson, Peewee danced his way through life to the tune of his favorite song, “Tighten Up” by Archie Bell. As we remember him, let’s not forget the words of the great comedian George Burns who once said, “Happiness is having a large, loving, caring, close-knit family in another city.” Peewee, though, loved having his large, boisterous family right up close, with all the noise and laughter that came with it.

Peewee was a graduate of Winslow High School, class of ’69, a year that perfectly captured his spirit of freedom and fun. He continued his education at Phoenix College, where he likely spent more time charming his classmates than hitting the books. Known for his magnetic personality and his inability to stay still, he briefly worked for the Santa Fe Railroad as a check car attendant before finding his true calling at American Airlines, where he remained until he hung up his proverbial captain’s hat.

Peewee was a devout Christian, who often said his prayers in the key of C – for comedy. He believed in a good guffaw and a hearty amen, sometimes in the same breath. His faith was as much a part of him as his infectious smile and his penchant for breaking into song.

His love for music was rivaled only by his passion for sports. Whether he was singing, dancing, or cheering on his favorite team, Peewee did it all with a gusto that was uniquely his own. The joy he found in these simple pleasures was contagious, and he never missed an opportunity to make others feel included in the fun.

Described by those who knew him best as loving, passionate, and friendly, Peewee was the life of every party. His nine children, Tammi, Letonia, Renell, Chauncey, Quishana, Monique, Quintell, Lunzel, and Aniessa, were his pride and joy, as were his 21 grandchildren, who will no doubt carry on his legacy of laughter. He was the cherished brother of Robert (Tammy), Clydel (Clara), Elvis (Louise), and Walter (Dale), sister,  Arnetta Faye; sister-in-law, Valerie Atkins. Peewee was preceded in death by his father Lunzel, his mother Mary L, his stepfather Willie Lee, his brother Roy, and his grandparents Elijah and Fayban.

To his family, Peewee was both a superhero and a comedian, capable of turning tears into giggles with just a wink and a smile. He leaves behind a vast tapestry of memories filled with joy, a melody of love that will continue to play in the hearts of those who knew him.

As we bid farewell to Johnny L “Peewee” Taylor, let’s do so with a smile, for that’s how he would’ve wanted it. In the wise words of the beloved comedian Bob Hope, “I don’t feel old. I don’t feel anything until noon. Then it’s time for my nap.” Peewee, your time for rest has come, but your spirit will forever dance in the midday sun.