Longtime coordinator and Teamsters Local 399 member James C. Taylor passed away recently. He was 66 years old.
James worked in the movie industry for over 40 years, first as a driver and then as a coordinator with his company NAE Studio Rentals. His list of films includes the classics American Graffiti, Get Shorty, Mrs. Doubtfire and Hoffa.
Throughout his long career, however, he always made time for his family. He would not miss his children’s school or sports events, and often took them camping in his RV.
“He was a great example to all of us by the way he loved our Mom and led his kids and drivers through the ups and downs of life,” said his son, Cliff. “His perfect day involved time with friends and family on the golf course, camping or just watching an old Western on TV.”
It was about 20 years ago when Taylor discovered golf, and he began playing as much as possible. “He basically ‘lived’ golf,” explained Cliff, who also worked as a coordinator. “He even moved so that he could live next to a course.”
As a coordinator he always cared about his drivers. “He loved to teach and help them whenever possible,” added Niki Grosso, his associate at NAE. “He was tough when things weren’t going well, but he was on of the most caring people in the business.”
He is survived by his wife, Gail Taylor, daughter Gabrielle Shirley, sons Clifton, Clayton and Clinton Taylor, and thirteen grandchildren.
