Joshua “JT” Taylor Myers

Some people leave an impression through what they accomplish. Others leave an impression through how they make people feel. Joshua Taylor "JT" Myers was one of those rare people who did both.

JT passed away on June 3, 2026, at the age of 37. Born on January 20, 1989, he lived a life filled with friendship, laughter, adventure, and a genuine love for the people around him. While his time here was far too short, the impact he made will endure for years to come.

To know JT was to know someone who would show up. No matter the circumstance, no matter the hour, if a friend or family member needed him, he was there. He loved fiercely, cared deeply, and never hesitated to lend a hand, offer support, or share a laugh when it was needed most. His loyalty was unwavering, and his kindness left a lasting mark on everyone fortunate enough to call him a friend.

JT built a distinguished career in information technology and cybersecurity, dedicating his talents to supporting some of the nation's most critical defense systems. After earning his Bachelor's degree in Information Technology with a focus on Information Assurance and Forensics from OSU Institute of Technology, he began his professional journey with Dell. Throughout his career, he served with multiple government contractors supporting the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA), an essential combat support agency of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), in roles including Systems Architect and Senior Systems Engineer. He also served as a civil service employee with DISA and supported the United States Air Force's B-2 Spirit program. Throughout these roles, JT maintained a Top Secret security clearance, a reflection of the trust placed in his expertise, professionalism, and character. He took great pride in his work, applying his passion for technology to strengthen and protect the systems that serve our nation.

Outside of work and school, JT embraced life through the things he loved most. Roller skating wasn't simply a hobby—it was part of who he was. His passion began at Rollerland in Choctaw, where he spent countless hours on the rink and formed many of the friendships that would last a lifetime. As a member of Skate Masters, he loved sharing his passion with fellow rink rats and was always happiest with skates on his feet. Watching JT skate was watching someone completely in his element. Any time he stepped onto the floor, he was almost certainly the best skater in the building. His signature shuffle style was uniquely his own—smooth, effortless, and impossible to replicate, though many tried. More than anything, the rink was where JT built community, created memories, and shared the joy that made him so special to so many.

From an early age, JT had a natural talent for computers and video games, a passion that began when his mom bought him his first PC. Even as a young child, he seemed to have an uncanny skill with any game he picked up. Over the years, he enjoyed countless hours playing Xbox games, especially Halo, Destiny, and Forza. More than the games themselves, JT loved the time they gave him to connect with the people he cared about. Many evenings were spent laughing, competing, and making memories with his friends, turning gaming into another way he shared his friendship and stayed close to those he loved.

JT's love for cars was a lifelong passion. It began with his beloved Ford Probe and later found a special place in his limited-edition Subaru STI, a car he was incredibly proud of and loved sharing stories about. While he enjoyed the occasional car meet, JT was happiest simply behind the wheel, enjoying the drive. A devoted Formula 1 fan, he appreciated the speed, skill, and precision of the sport, and he found joy in the friendships and memories that grew from his love of cars.

More than any hobby or accomplishment, however, JT will be remembered for his heart. He had a way of making people feel seen. He could turn strangers into friends and friends into family. His laughter was infectious, his generosity was genuine, and his presence made life brighter for those around him.

JT is survived by his mother, Dianna Welch-Myers; and his brother, Tommy Welch.

He was preceded in death by his father, Tommy Dahl Myers.

While those who loved JT wish they had been given more time, they are grateful for every memory, every adventure, every late-night conversation, every laugh, and every moment shared with him. His story does not end with his passing. It lives on in the people he loved, the friendships he built, the lives he touched, and the communities that became family.

When friends gather online for one more game, when family and friends share a story and find themselves laughing at one of JT's quick-witted remarks, or when wheels glide across a skating rink floor to the rhythm of familiar music, those who knew JT may find themselves smiling, remembering, and feeling his presence once again.

And in those moments, his legacy continues.