-Ex-VP Taylor Lauds Liberians’ Kindness, Following Son’s Burial
MONROVIA, Liberia — Former Vice President of Liberia and Standard Bearer of the National Patriotic Party (NPP), Chief Dr. Jewel Howard-Taylor, has issued a statement of appreciation to the nation following the death and burial of her son, Charles Philip Taylor Jr.
Mr. Taylor Jr. passed away on January 20, 2026. Following weeks of mourning, he was laid to rest on Saturday, February 21, 2026. In a message released to the public, Chief Howard-Taylor expressed profound gratitude for the “overwhelming outpouring of love” that surrounded her family during their time of grief.
“It is with a deeply grateful heart that I extend my profound appreciation and heartfelt thanks to all who visited, called, sent messages, prayed, and stood in solidarity with me and my family,” the statement read. “Your presence, compassion, and unwavering support strengthened us and reminded us that even in our darkest hour, we are not alone.”
The former Vice President acknowledged the broad spectrum of national figures who stood in solidarity with the family. She extended specific gratitude to current President Joseph N. Boikai and officials of his administration, as well as former Presidents Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Manneh Weah, noting that both ensured their presence was felt during the difficult period.
Her appreciation extended across the political aisle, recognizing the support from her own National Patriotic Party, the Congress for Democratic Change, and the Unity Party (Bong County Chapter). She also thanked current and former members of the legislature, religious leaders from both the Christian and Muslim communities, and the many Liberian families and well-wishers who offered comfort.
“The Taylor, Howard, Giddings, and Bracewell families are deeply appreciative of your prayers, your encouraging words, and your steadfast support,” the statement added. “Though I mourn the loss of a beloved son, my soul finds solace in the overwhelming outpouring of love that surrounded us. You have helped carry our burden and have reaffirmed the enduring bonds of humanity.”
In her message, Chief Howard-Taylor also pivoted to the future of her political family, using the moment of unity to appeal for cohesion within the NPP. She called for reconciliation and a renewed sense of purpose among party members.
“To my party, the National Patriotic Party, I reiterate my sincere appeal for unity. For any acts done by me, knowingly or unknowingly, I humbly stretch my hands and ask for your forgiveness,” she wrote. “Let us embrace reconciliation, renew our sense of purpose, and move forward together for the strength, future, and sustainability of our great Party. We are one family, and nothing should divide us.”
Concluding her message, Chief Howard-Taylor remarked that one of the few comforts in her son’s passing has been its power to draw together family, party, and the nation in “shared sympathy and unity.”
“For this, and for all that each has done, my family and I remain eternally grateful,” she said.
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.
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.
