Jeffery “JT” Alan Taylor

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the passing of Jeffery Alan “JT” Taylor on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at his home in West Allis, Wisconsin.

There are no words—and certainly none that can fully capture the presence, power, and heart he brought into this world. To know Jeff was to feel something undeniably special: inspiration. He was, in every sense, bigger than life.

Jeff was a dedicated educator, serving as a teacher and later as a principal in Milwaukee Public Schools and the School District of West Allis–West Milwaukee. He always went the extra mile for students and families, believing deeply in the power of education to change lives. He didn’t just lead schools—he built communities. Jeff also mentored countless aspiring administrators, many of whom carry forward his legacy in their own work, remaining lifelong friends and extending his reach far beyond any one building. Students, families, and the educators he supported were at the heart of his mission—but music was the rhythm of his soul.

Jeff’s musical journey began in childhood with the trumpet, eventually expanding to keyboards and vocals in gig bands. He earned his degree in music education from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. He ultimately became the powerful, unmistakable lead singer of the Altered Five Blues Band, where his voice and spirit defined the group for more than two decades.

On stage, Jeff was electric—a true force. Off stage, he was just as impactful: warm, generous, and deeply connected to people. Whether he was performing in Milwaukee, across Wisconsin, or around the world, Jeff had a rare gift for bringing people together. As DownBeat magazine once noted, “of all the voices in the modern blues arena, one of the finest belongs to Jeff Taylor.” Those who knew him never needed a magazine to tell them that.

To many, Jeff was their favorite musician, their coolest principal, their most inspiring boss, colleague, or mentor. To his family, he was everything. He was a beloved brother, uncle, husband, father and friend who showed up for everything—the one who could be called for anything, and often was. He spoiled, adored, and poured into those he loved without hesitation. His intelligence, intensity, ambition, boldness, and deep love for connection live on in those closest to him. So much of who he was continues through them.

Jeff’s passing leaves a profound void, but also a remarkable legacy. The stories of lives changed because of him—students inspired, colleagues uplifted, audiences moved—are countless. His impact cannot be measured, only felt.

Jeff was preceded in death by his mother Allean Taylor and father Reginald Wheeler. He is survived by his loving wife, Kristen Taylor (nee Gurtner), daughter Sienna Gurtner, daughter Shayla Taylor, sister Pamela Steele, brother Ivan Jay Taylor (Theresa Taylor), nieces Akilah Allen and Ivian Taylor, and nephews Dartanion Taylor and Ivan Jay Taylor Jr and a host of extended family, friends, and colleagues.

Visitation will be held at Krause Funeral Home, 12401 West National Avenue, New Berlin, Wisconsin, on Monday, May 18, 2026, 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. Funeral Service at 7:15 PM.

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