James Edward Taylor was born on October 5, 1950, in Wheatland, Missouri at Dr. Brigg's office to Wilbur "Webb" and Minnie (Baumgarden) Taylor. James grew up on the family farm in Quincy and enjoyed working on cars and trucks and helping farm.

James graduated from Osceola High School in 1968, and married Karen White after graduation and later that year, their son, Cullis "Buck" was born. James' daughter Tammie was born in 1970. James worked for the railroad in Kansas City but didn't like the city life and moved back to the family farm. He worked at Clearfield Cheese in Clinton until he began his career in over-the-road truck driving. James was a truck driver for over 20 years before his retirement.

James married Daisy and continued to live in Weaubleau until his death on September 25th, 2024 at the age of 73 years, 11 months, and 20 days.

Preceding him in death are his parents, brother Ned, sisters Phyllis and Alberta. Surviving James is his wife Daisy, son "Buck" (Janet) of Osceola, daughter Tammie (Allen) Brown of Osceola. Six grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews and family friends.