The Otterbein University President expressed condolences, stating,
“The Otterbein community is heartbroken by the loss of Josh Taylor. He was a talented student-athlete whose presence enriched our campus in countless ways. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends during this challenging time.”
The university has made counseling and support services available to students, faculty, and staff affected by the tragedy.
Taylor’s relentless work ethic extended beyond the wrestling mat.
Coaches and teammates remember him as an inspiring individual who brought energy and positivity to every practice and match.
Tributes to Taylor have flooded social media, with friends, teammates, and university staff sharing heartfelt memories of his passion for wrestling, as well as loyalty as a friend.
The Otterbein wrestling head coach Brent Rastetter mentioned,
“Josh was more than just a wrestler; he was a brother to us,” shared. His presence lit up the room, and he had an incredible ability to push everyone around him to be better. This loss is immeasurable.”
A fellow wrestler added he was a cornerstone of the team who motivated all the teammates. He was a friend who cared deeply about everyone in the room.
Taylor was equally committed to his academic pursuits off the mat.
The wrestling team is planning for a memorial service to honor his life and legacy
This devastating event has left his family, friends, teammates, and the university united in grief.
A candlelight vigil is being organized on campus, and discussions are underway to establish a scholarship fund in Taylor’s name.
The Otterbein community and his well-wishers are outpouring support to Taylor’s parents, Melissa and Andy, along with his siblings.
In a heartfelt social media post, the wrestling team expressed their grief and asked for thoughts and prayers for Taylor’s family.
The Otterbein Wrestling team has vowed to uphold the values he embodied because they honor his hard work, team spirit, and enduring love for the sport.
“Josh was the kind of person who left a mark on everyone he met. His laughter, his drive, his heart—they’re things we’ll carry with us forever. Rest in peace, Josh. You’ll always be a part of our family.”
While his family and teammates are grieving, authorities are still examining factors such as road conditions, mechanical issues, and driver behavior to determine the cause of the crash.
In case you did not know
Josh Taylor graduated from Lakewood High School.
He is the recipient of the 2023-24 Otterbein University Wrestling Luke Hess Most Improved Awards.
Josh was also the Otterbein Wrestling team’s CardinalGRIT Wrestlers of the Week in November 2024, along with his teammates Luke, Billy, and Andrew.
Rasu Rajbanshi, a BBA gradaute works as a freelance content writer and tries to bring ideas to life through words, by creating compelling narratives that resonate with readers.
