The motorcycling world has lost a great champion. Rodney V. Taylor died on September 21st, 2026. A highly regarded attorney, Rod probably has his fingerprints on every waiver, contract, lease, disclaimer or legal document that any State Motorcyclists’ Rights Organization (SMRO) has utilized in the last 40+ years (pro bono, I might add). He often referred to himself as our “consigliere”. In addition to being “house council” for many SMROs, he represented a tremendous number of our members and other riders. While Rod was a great lawyer, he was so much more than that. When he took your case, he was your friend, he was your family.
Volumes could be written about Rod’s accomplishments and the individuals and organizations that he has assisted. He had a hard time saying no and was never shy about helping, but preferred to give others the credit and accolades. He was always quick with a story, but was just as excited to listen to a tale, as to tell one. If you were around Rod much, you probably heard one of his favorites about being the “Sheep Shearing Champion” of Wayne County, Illinois.
He had a great deal to be proud of with regard to professional successes and personal triumphs. However, family and relationships are what Rod held in the highest regard. Being a good father, husband and friend were his greatest rewards.
Rod was a huge history buff with a specific interest in the U.S. Civil War. He was an outspoken American and loved cowboy movies, war movies, the History Channel, John Wayne and Johnny Cash. He was quite fond of spinning stories that inspired patriotism.
No man is immortal, but Rod truly was bigger than life. It’s hard to imagine a world without Rod Taylor in it.
In true John Wayne fashion, Rod didn’t want any “big deal” in response to his passing. He made his family promise not to throw a big funeral and not even an obituary, but if you want to pass any stories along to the family, those may be sent to his daughter, Hilary at hilarybarnes@abatelegal.com . We love you Rod, and we’d like to respect your wishes, but I’m afraid we simply cannot let you go without bragging about you. Just like you always did with all of us. You believed in people. You championed them. You told their stories, celebrated their accomplishments and made sure that others knew how much they mattered. So please forgive us Rod, but this one time, it’s our turn to make sure you know how much you matter. #ABATEIL
