Founder Taylor chose business as his life’s calling. From 1917 to 1926 he owned a real estate and insurance business. He was Secretary-Treasurer of the Potomac Investment Company, Director of the Federal Life Insurance Company and President of the Taylor Tobacco Company.
Founder Taylor coined the Fraternity’s motto, “Culture for Service, Service for Humanity”. He began serving humanity by founding Sigma, to which he gave twelve consecutive years of service as a National Officer, serving as National President, National Treasurer, National Secretary and Field Secretary. He also served as President of the Distinguished Service Chapter.
Founder Taylor was described as distinguished, poised and truly a hard worker. The members of the Alpha Sigma chapter called Founder Taylor “Prof”, short for professor, because he was always carrying a book, files or reading. In addition to holding national offices in Phi Beta Sigma, he served in various capacities in The Washington Art Society, The Derby Club, The Banneker Research Society, The Mu-So-Lit Club and the Tennessee State Club.
A tireless worker, Founder Taylor strove to ensure that Phi Beta Sigma would make a significant impact in the world well beyond his years of service. He served on the History Committee , providing numerous notations, minutes and oral history to be passed on to future members. Founder Taylor retired from federal service as an employee of the Smithsonian Institute.
Founder Taylor is buried at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Suitland, Maryland (right outside of Washington, D.C.). His gravesite sits at the highest peek.