Anthony Taylor Funeral Expenses

As you may know, there was a shooting at the MDHA homes off DB Todd Blvd and 25th Avenue while Rotarians were delivering food boxes.  My dad, son, wife and I were a little too close for comfort (about a block or so away) and we ran into the apt of Anthony Taylor, who we just delivered a box too. 

Mr. Taylor could not have been more gracious, insisting that we stay there with his son while he ventured out to make sure "the coast was clear".   I was even more touched when I found out that he lost his wife , Lynette, the night before in that very apartment to a heart attack, despite the best efforts of his 15 year old son to revive her by CPR.  Thanks to the quick reaction of Metro PD , all was safe fairly quickly but the conversation with Mr. Taylor and his son left us with a desire to help this good man and his family....just as he helped us without hesitation as we found ourselves in a potentially dangerous situation.

Paige and I have decided to help the Taylor family this Christmas and called him to see if he had any specific needs.  He told us that he, his son and daughter are in need of suits and a dress for his wife's funeral, which will take place sometime this week.   I'm sure there are funeral expenses, although he didn't mention these specifically.  Obviously, any expenses will take away from his ability to provide for Xmas for his family.   However, as he told Paige, "God is Good" and will provide.    Since our initial encouner only a few days ago, our family has spent some time with him and his kids (see attached photo) and have faith this will be the case.

This was an unfortunate occurrence during a Rotary event where two Rotarians were given assistance by someone who is experiencing great loss in an environment where shootings, like the one we witnessed, happens as frequently as our Monday lunch.  We were there to help folks, like Mr. Thomas, but quickly found ourselves receiving the most assistance. 

We have created a Go Fund Me page for the Taylor family to help with the funeral.   Our hope is to raise $7000 to pay for the expenses associated with the funeral; $15 from each Rotarian would cover this.   Any money raised in excess of this amount will be given to him in the form of a Kroger gift card. 

Thank you for your consideration.  I wish you a most blessed holiday season!

Kevin Roddey