Leslie "Les" L. Taylor, Jr.

Leslie Lee Taylor, Jr. of Worcester, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 6, 2026, at UMass Memorial Medical Center University Campus, after a courageous battle with multiple sclerosis and kidney disease. He was surrounded by his loving wife and family.

Les was the beloved husband of Joyce Taylor, his wife and partner of 42 years. He leaves behind his cherished sons, Robert Metcalf and his wife Melissa of Southbridge, MA, and Christopher Metcalf and his fiancée Diana Ronzio of Gilbert, AZ. He was a proud and devoted grandfather (Papa) to six grandchildren: Brendon and Brianna Metcalf of Worcester, MA; Jamison and Griffin Metcalf of Leicester, MA; and Madelyne and Charolette Libby-Toler of Southbridge, MA. He also leaves many loving nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Born in Worcester, MA, Les was the son of the late Blanche E. Taylor and Leslie Taylor Sr. Les leaves behind his siblings, Debbie Claudio and her husband, Angel, of Webster, MA, and Michael Taylor of Uxbridge, MA. He will be deeply missed by many friends and family near and far.

A faithful parishioner of New Creation Christian Church (NCCC), Les retired from the Norton Company in Worcester after 32 dedicated years of service. He was an avid sports fan who enjoyed a good card game and was known as the life of every gathering. Les loved bringing people together and created many lasting memories while entertaining family and friends.

Calling Hours will be on Tuesday morning, February 17, from 9 am until his Funeral Service begins at 11 am in the MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA.

Burial will follow at Worcester County Memorial Park in Paxton, MA.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New Creation Christian Church (NCCC), 70 James Street, Suite 259, Worcester, MA 01603.