Thomas D. "Tom" Taylor

Thomas D. Taylor, "Tom", 73, resident of Altoona, PA, passed away Saturday, November 8, at UPMC Hospital (Altoona) following a long illness. He was born in Wilmington, DE, son of the late David R. Taylor and late Joann C. (Carlin) Taylor.  

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Diane Smithmeyer; three sisters: Kathy Casey, Carol Taylor and Anne Hudson; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Tom was preceded in death by his youngest sister, Colleen Taylor.

Tom was a graduate of Salesianum High School in Wilmington, DE.  He then graduated from the University of Delaware in 1974 with a degree in Criminal Justice. Tom later retired as a legal assistant within then State of Delaware Family Court system.

Tom enjoyed playing his guitar and electric keyboard.  He often played his guitar at high school dances as a member of a small band.  He was a man of strong faith.  In his younger years, he especially loved to play guitar and sing with his sister Kathy at Mass. He also had a love for animals, especially his dog Carmel and cat Tara.

Friends will be received at the 10am Mass of Christian Burial on Friday, November 14, 2025 at the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. Committal will be at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, to help with funeral expenses for the family, donations may be made payable to the Santella Funeral Home, 1106-8th Ave. Altoona PA 16602.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Thomas D. "Tom" Taylor, please visit our floral store.