On Saturday, September 6th [2003], Gary Taylor, the Surf Writer passed into immortality at the ripe young age of 46. Returning home from a Birthday session in Mentawai Archipelago of the Indian Ocean, Gary was with close loving friends when felled by a heart failure in the Singapore Airport.

Known throughout the surfing world as the "Surf Writer," Gary Charles Taylor was the rare artist that could put into the words the primal connection between surfing and the ocean so many feel. As a journalist his was a steady voice that reflected our time and place. He was also a guide, a mentor, critic and activist every week, in black and white, for the world to read. His observations reverberated across generations, to surfers and non-surfers alike, offering a cultural narrative of life from a San Dieguito perspective.

A prodigy of Swami's, young Gary Taylor was never far from his favorite surf spot. A long time local, Gary evolved with the community of Encinitas, helping to shape the city it was to become. Always willing to contribute to quality of life endeavors, Gary was active in civic and business groups, media and environmental circles, gaining the respect of everyone with kindness and consideration, with never a discouraging word to friends or colleagues.

Although quiet and unassuming, Gary Taylor lived to the fullest searching for the perfect story, sunset, and ultimate surf experience, always tethered to his home above Swami's. Something of which many were grateful. A man of principles, ideals, and impressive insight, Gary Charles Taylor leaves behind a legion of fans, an army of friends, and a canine companion named Wile E.

He is already missed.