– VP Taylor to Weah, Boakai and Others, as she mourns her son
Former Vice President of Liberia, Madam Jewel Howard-Taylor, has issued a message of profound gratitude to the nation and its leaders following the passing of her son, Charles Neilson Phillip Taylor, who died last week at the age of 42.
In a statement released Tuesday, Howard-Taylor described an “overwhelming outpouring of love and compassion” that has comforted her family during a period of deep grief. “Even now, it feels unreal that he is gone at such a young age,” she wrote, while giving thanks for the “precious gift” of the 42 years they shared.
The former Vice President extended specific appreciation to a wide array of national figures. She thanked former President George Manneh Weah and officials of the Congress for Democratic Change (CDC), who visited her on Tuesday immediately after learning of the loss.
Her gratitude also extended to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, former President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the Honorable Speaker, the Pro Tempore, and members of all three branches of government for their continued consolation.
Highlighting the broad base of support, Howard-Taylor also thanked church leaders, musicians, classmates, organizations, and citizens from all walks of life for their visits, prayers, and sympathy. “Your presence has brought us comfort during this time of deep grief,” she stated. The statement concluded with a note that the schedule for the interment of the late Charles Neilson Phillip Taylor will be shared shortly.
Madam Taylor recently announced the death of her son, Philip Taylor, describing the loss as “devastating and overwhelming.” In an emotional public statement, she said, “With deep sorrow, I announce the passing of my beloved son, Philip. My heart is shattered. The pain feels overwhelming and constant.” She remembered him as the center of her life, noting, “Philip was love, light, and purpose in my life. His presence shaped my days and gave meaning to my world.”
The former Vice President appealed for prayers and strength as the family navigates this period of mourning. Philip Taylor, formally Charles Phillip Taylor Jr., was the son of former Liberian President Charles Taylor and former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor. He passed away on Tuesday at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Monrovia, according to family sources.
The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
In July 2023, the Taylor family celebrated Philip’s academic success after he earned a Master’s degree in Shipping and Port Administration from the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana—an achievement that was widely praised by relatives and associates.
