Joe Don Taylor, 78, of Brownwood, Texas, was called home to Heaven on September 11, 2025. Visitation will be held from 6:00 to 8:00PM on Wednesday, September 17, at Heartland Funeral Home in Early. Funeral services for Joe Don will be held at 10:00AM on Thursday, August 18, at Austin Avenue Church of Christ in Brownwood. Interment will be private following the service.

He was born December 5, 1946, in Brownwood to Sandy Cecil Taylor and Imogene “Jean” Taylor. Joe grew up in Brownwood and graduated from Brownwood High School in 1965. Soon after, he answered the call to serve his country, joining the United States Air Force where he worked as a military police officer. Following his military service, Joe returned home and carried on his father’s legacy of public service through a remarkable career in law enforcement.

For 37 years, Joe dedicated himself to protecting and serving his community. In 1984, he was elected Chief of Police for the Brownwood Police Department, a role in which he led with integrity, courage, and deep devotion to the people of his hometown. Even after his retirement, Joe remained a steadfast supporter of law enforcement, often rallying and encouraging the officers who carried on the badge after him.

Joe’s heart always belonged to Brownwood. He often said everyone needed a little bit of Brownwood in their life. Known as one of the community’s original “Hometown Heroes,” Joe lived that truth daily—his larger-than-life presence, love for people, and unwavering belief in community made him unforgettable.

A man of strong faith, Joe was a lifelong member of Austin Avenue Church of Christ. His devotion to the Lord was evident in how he lived, served, and loved. Above all else, Joe treasured his family. His children and grandchildren were the center of his world. He loved them fiercely, spoke of them proudly, and cherished every moment with them.

Joe is preceded in death by his parents, Sandy and Jean Taylor. He is survived by his daughter, Torri Choate and husband Abram of Brownwood, along with their children Asher, Ava, and Corban; and by his son, Joe Aaron Taylor, who proudly followed his father’s footsteps into law enforcement; sister, Sandra Pennington; and niece and nephew, Karen and Todd.

Joe’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his family rejoices knowing that his pain has ended and that he is now spending eternity with his Lord and Savior. His legacy of faith, service, and love will live on in all who had the honor of knowing him.

Condolences, memories and tributes can be offered to the family online at heartlandfuneralhome.net