Burdell Taylor

A Celebration of Life and Legacy Burdell “Butch” Taylor

Sunrise: May 20, 1950 

Sunset: October 15, 2025

“A man of quiet strength, creative brilliance, and unwavering love.”

Burdell “Butch” Taylor passed away peacefully in New Haven, Connecticut, after a brief illness. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, godfather, and friend whose warmth, wisdom, and quiet strength touched the lives of many.

Burdell grew up in New Haven, Connecticut, attended New Haven Public Schools, and graduated from Wilbur Cross High School. He moved to Philadelphia in the early 1980s and returned to New Haven in 2008.

Professionally, Burdell completed an Apprentice Program at the Philadelphia School of Printing and Advertising and worked as a printer for many years in Philadelphia, earning respect for his precision and dedication.

He later continued his career with CB Maintenance, where he remained a valued employee for years. He was extremely creative and entrepreneurial, founding Taylormade Designs and Home Remodeling where he serviced his loyal customers with care. He also founded Royal Possessions — designed by T., where his creative talents extended to lamps, clocks, mirrors, planters, and other contemporary interior pieces.

His talents spanned carpentry, singing with St. Matthews male chorus, and as choir director and conga player at Agape Christian Center, and he was especially known for his beautifully crafted macramé lamps — each one a reflecting his artistry and attention to detail.

Burdell was also an avid lover of plants, nurturing them with the same care and joy he gave to those around him. His home was a vibrant reflection of his creativity, warmth, and personality.

Burdell loved baking cakes and cooking lobster and crab legs for family and friends. He was a passionate traveler and sports enthusiast who enjoyed watching all sports, especially cheering for his favorite teams — the Philadelphia Eagles and Golden State Warriors.

His signature saying, “You understand what I’m saying?” brought warmth and laughter to every conversation.

Burdell is survived by his devoted wife, Mamie Smith-Taylor of New Haven, Connecticut, and his loving children: Andrea Taylor of Grayson, Georgia; Taekwon Taylor of New Haven, Connecticut, Malcolm Lytell of Quinton, Maryland; and Deya Smith-Taylor (Verlin) of Dallas, Texas.

He is also survived by his only living sibling, sister Yvonne Anderson of New Haven. He was a proud grandfather to Dwayne Lee, Taekwon Burdell Taylor Jr., and Myasia Lytell, all of New Haven, Connecticut, and Katori Cirasuolo of West Haven, Connecticut. He was also a cherished great-grandfather to Deleon Lee of Hamden, Connecticut, and godfather to Mark Johnson (Rashira) of Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania, Frederic Morris and grand-goddaughter Siani Dream Morris, both of New Haven, CT., along with doting nieces Tiffany Dean, Michelle Taylor, Cynthia Davis, Penny Taylor, and a host of extended family and friends who will miss him dearly.

Burdell was predeceased by his parents, Burdell and Marion Taylor; his siblings, Micheal Taylor, Charles Taylor, and Ronald Taylor; his grandparents, Reverend Charles Walker and Leona Griffin-Walker, niece Marissa Samuels, and nephew John Hall.

Throughout his life, Burdell was known for his steady presence, deep love for his family, and unwavering integrity. He leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and devotion that will continue to inspire all who knew him. He is sorely missed by all who loved and adored him, we now hold close in our hearts the cherished memories we were blessed to share with him.

A memorial service to celebrate Burdell’s life will be held at St. Matthew’s UFWB Church, 400 Dixwell Avenue, New Haven, Connecticut. Viewing will take place from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by the service at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow at Beaverdale Memorial Park in Hamden, Connecticut. A repass will be held at St. Matthew’s following the burial. Condolences may be expressed at Colonialfunerals.com.