In an interview, Marlon had expressed his heartfelt gratitude for joining Notre Dame. He noted that the football games are “everything one would have imagined them to be.”
Highlights
- Marlon Taylor, a second-year MBA student at the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, passed away over the Christmas break.
- Originally from Chicago, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Industrial Systems Engineering from the University of Missouri–Columbia.
- At Notre Dame, he was known for his enthusiasm for campus traditions and was eager to join the Bowling Club.
- His friends and family have paid heartfelt tributes on Facebook.
Marlon Taylor, a second-year Master of Business Administration (MBA) student at the University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business, passed away unexpectedly during the Christmas break of 2024.
His death, announced to the Notre Dame community on February 6, 2025, has left his family, friends, and the university in mourning.
Taylor, who was known for his ambition, intelligence, and dedication to his studies and community, leaves behind a legacy of kindness and determination.
Marlon Taylor’s death came as a shock to those who knew him.
While the exact cause of death has not been disclosed, the university confirmed his passing in an email sent by Vice President for Student Affairs Fr. Gerry Olinger.
Taylor’s funeral was held on February 7, 2025, at the Leak and Sons Funeral Home in Matteson, Illinois, followed by a memorial mass at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on Notre Dame’s campus.
Marlon Had A Promising Career Ahead Of Him
Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Marlon Taylor pursued his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri–Columbia, earning a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Systems Engineering.
During his time there, he demonstrated leadership and financial acumen by managing and raising over $30,000 for the university’s chapter of the National Society of Black Engineers, where he served as treasurer.
Professionally, Taylor held the position of Customer Engineer at SafetyChain Software.
His career highlights include leading a process improvement project at Hallmark Cards that resulted in savings exceeding $100,000.
Marlon Had Expressed Enthusiasm About Notre Dame And Its Football Games
In pursuit of furthering his education, Taylor joined Notre Dame’s MBA program, focusing on strategy.
Reflecting on his experiences, particularly his enthusiasm for the school’s famous football program, he noted,
When I came to Notre Dame, I felt a sense of pride and peace. How fortunate I am to attend such an institution. The football games are everything I would have imagined them to be. Last but not least, the people are welcoming and steady.
poetsandquants.com
Beyond academics, Taylor was eager to engage with the Notre Dame community.
He had expressed enthusiasm about joining the Bowling Club, saying,
I don’t like to brag about my affinity for bowling, but I have my own shoes and ball. You could say it might be a serious hobby of mine.
poetsandquants.com
Details about Taylor’s family, including his parents and siblings, have not been publicly disclosed.
However, many family members and friends have expressed their sorrow on Facebook. One of Marlon’s close friends wrote,
Marlon Taylor I still can’t believe you are gone.
Facebook
Such a sweet soul, who always looked out and cared for others so much. You mentored me throughout college, and even after. You encouraged me to never give up when it was hard. You never failed to check in on me. I was just laughing at some reels you sent me three days ago.
I’m praying for strength for your family. You are loved and heavily missed. I’ll always live up to your motto #Geared4Greatness
The Notre Dame community has been deeply affected by his passing.
A mass in his honor is scheduled for Tuesday at 5:15 p.m. in the Basilica, with Fr. Gerry Olinger presiding and Assistant Vice President for Campus Ministry, Fr. Pete McCormick, delivering the homily.
As the Notre Dame community reflects on Taylor’s contributions and mourns his loss, his legacy of ambition, curiosity, and dedication to both his studies and peers will be remembered.
Additional Information
- Before pursuing his undergraduate studies at the University of Missouri-Columbia, Marlon attended Marian Catholic High School in Chicago Heights, Illinois.
- Marlon’s Facebook bio reads, “A young man with an old soul; transforming big dreams into life goals.”
- Marlon was an activist for Black rights.
