Richard Taylor, father of Damilola Taylor, the schoolboy tragically killed in a London stairwell in 2000, passed away at the age of 75 after a long battle with prostate cancer. Following the devastating loss of his son,
Richard dedicated over two decades to combatting knife crime and improving the lives of disadvantaged youth.
He founded the Damilola Taylor Trust to advocate against knife violence and provide opportunities for underprivileged children. Remembered as a man of resilience and dedication, Richard always hoped his son would be remembered for his optimism and as a beacon of hope.
Despite facing immense tragedy, Richard and his late wife Gloria persevered, establishing the charity in Damilola's memory.
Their tireless efforts garnered support from the community and public figures like footballer Rio Ferdinand and actor John Boyega, who was a childhood friend of Damilola.
Tributes poured in on social media, with many acknowledging Richard's unwavering commitment to his son's legacy and his relentless pursuit of a safer and brighter future for young people.
Richard's passing marks the end of an era, but his impactful legacy will endure through the continued work of the Damilola Taylor Trust and the countless lives he touched.
