William “Bill” Taggart, 88, of New Canaan, Connecticut, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 15th, in his home surrounded by his loving family.

Born in New York City in 1936 to Rush and Carolyn Taggart, Bill was the youngest of four children, cherished brother to Rush Jr., Robert, and Eliza. He grew up in Rye, New York, where his lifelong love of family, learning, and the outdoors began to take root.

Bill’s academic journey reflected his dedication and drive. He graduated from Deerfield Academy before continuing on to Harvard University, M.I.T., and Harvard Business School. His career in wealth management spanned decades, with positions at J.P. Morgan and BNY Mellon, where his wisdom and integrity were hallmarks of his work.

Bill shared 48 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Elizabeth Hammett Taggart. He is also survived by his children, William Jr., Gordon, Nancy Taggart Hegerty, Michael, Chris Nolan, and Hilary Nolan Cohen. He was a devoted grandfather who delighted in teaching his grandchildren the joys of fishing and the peace found in nature.

Service and generosity were central to Bill’s life. He served as President and on the Board of Directors for the Pegasus Foundation, sat on the Board of Directors for Person-to-Person, and was a dedicated member of the Vestry at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Darien. His commitment extended further to the Pingry School, the New Canaan Historical Society and Museum, and the New Canaan Community Foundation. His leadership and compassion touched countless lives in his community and beyond.

Above all, Bill cherished time spent with family, especially while fishing—his favorite pastime. The lessons he shared at the water’s edge were as much about patience, joy, and connection as they were about the catch itself.

Bill’s life will be honored with a private family interment. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Person-to-Person, an organization close to his heart, at https://p2phelps.org/ways-to-give/. 

For online condolences please visit www.hoytfuneralhome.com