A statement on behalf of the family of Richard Taylor OBE.
It is with a heavy heart that the family announce the death of our beloved father, grandfather and uncle, Mr Richard Adeyemi Taylor OBE, who sadly passed away in the early hours of Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woolwich, after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.
It was Richard Taylor’s wish that the work of the Trust, that he devoted himself to for nearly a quarter of a century, should go on after his passing. The Trustees are determined that this should happen.
We are most grateful for the many kind and thoughtful messages we have received. We have created a website to allow those who wish to share memories or express their condolences. Please click here.
There is also a Book of Remembrance at the Damilola Taylor Youth Centre, 1 East Surrey Grove, Peckham, London, SE15 6DR where you can add your messages and memories any time the Centre is open. (Note: the Centre is run by Southwark Council and not by the Trust)
The family will be holding a Service of Songs for close family and friends followed by a private cremation in the immediate future.
A Celebration of Life service for Richard Taylor is being planned in Southwark Cathedral in about a month’s time. We will post more details here as soon as they are available..
It was Richard’s wish that the work of the Trust should continue after his passing. The family ask that you give a donation to the Trust to allow it to continue its work rather than sending flowers. You can donate through this link to JustGiving
Links to media coverage and obituaries can be found here
John Boyega talks about his childhood friendship with Damilola Taylor for the first time on the BBC programme Last words. John and his sister were two of the last people to see Damilola alive.
As more arrangements are finalised we will post them here.