Vladimir Nigel Taylor
June 29, 1970 - March 12, 2021
Vladimir Nigel Taylor, age 50, of New Castle, DE, passed away on Friday, March 12, 2021.
Born in Louisville, KY, on June 29, 1970, he was the son of the late George and Saralee (Morrison) Worts. Having a true talent and love for music, Nigel was the founder and frontman of the band, Platform One. When not composing, writing, and performing with Platform One, he was a solo acoustic artist who sometimes performed under his renaissance faire alias Sir Nigel the Black. He is also known as one of the most prolific Professor Snape impersonators, operating under the name Vladimir Snape since 2007. Strong in his beliefs, Nigel was an advocate against bullying, a fighter for equality of all kinds, a staunch feminist, and a proponent of consent, often using his renown in various communities to educate others about the importance of acceptance, love, and understanding.
He is survived by his fiancée, Hilary Graziola of Havertown, PA; long-term girlfriend, Abigail Adams of Alabama; sons, Matthew Dohoney of Arizona and Aidan Raisor of Georgia; daughters, Mary and Annie Dohoney of Indiana, and Terri Hammer of Nevada; sister, Angela Swan (Larry) of Indiana; biological mother, Susan Watson of Kentucky; nephew, Jay Swan of New Zealand; niece, Katherine Jackson of Missouri; half-sister, Faith Worts; half-brother, Josh Tucker of Washington; five grandchildren, several great-nephews, and many extended relatives.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11 am until 12:30 pm on Friday, March 19, 2021, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 1000 N. DuPont Highway, New Castle, DE. Services and interment will be held privately.
Any family members or friends who are unable to attend Nigel’s service can live stream the service by clicking here.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Nigel’s memory to The Prince’s Trust: https://princestrust.us/donate/
Carolyn Knott
“Let us strive to live in such a way that when we die even the undertaker is sad.” – Mark Twain.
Nigel was a wonderful light in this world, and though he has gone to dance among the stars, part of him remains with us all. He was an inspiration, advocate, and friend. Some day we will meet again, and until then we should strive to live in such a way that he is proud. 💚
Bonnie C.
I’m lucky to have had the honor of knowing Nigel. He was a good friend and neighbor to me and my family with his fiance, Hilary. He will always hold a special place in our hearts as a very kind and caring individual. 💜
Kathleen M. Lawson
He will be greatly missed, but remembered, Always. I am still in shock, and my heart is with his loved ones. May your sorrow be eased in time, by your happy memories of him.
Amanda Caskey
Thank you for sharing your talents and for helping bring Hoggstowne to such vibrant life. You were a kind and accepting soul and you definitely made an impact. /*
Wade Finch
The night boat came. just wish it would have waited a little longer. The Finch house has been holding you in though. I will always hold dear the time we had playing music and our silly adventures. ~Always.
Nancee LeeAllen
A wonderful musician, great speaker, amazing cos-player yet what I will always remember him for is KINDNESS!
The world is less magical without Nigel.
Sending love and prayers to his family and friends.
Robert Schroeder, Jr.
Nigel was a good man. He will be missed by all who were lucky enough to have known him.
Lily Holly
Nigel, since finding out about your passing, I have been unable to find the words. Truthfully, there isn’t a specific word to describe you. You are so many amazing words bundled up into one. A creative mind with a beautiful heart instantly comes up when I think of you. I only had the pleasure of meeting you a handful of times, conventions to be exact, but you always took time out of your busy schedule to find me to say hello. Our chats were nothing short of wonderful. I told you I was writing a book about bullying and you told me you’d be the first to buy it and you encouraged me to finish as soon as possible. I promise I will. We will all miss your presence immensely and I look forward until we can meet up at that big convention in the sky and have another lovely chat again. You left your mark on so many peoples lives, so many people. You are loved and adored, always…
– Lily
Micha T
He was a bright light amongst the darkness of this world and one of the only genuinely good people I ever knew and he will be missed by many. My condolences to his family
Mackenzie Biondo
Nigel was a very kind hearted gentleman. I never got to meet him in person but talking with him on a daily basis through messages was enough for me. He was the light in dark days. He will be missed always. Until we meet again dear friend. 💚
Sharon Lewis
Gods Speed.
You unique and gentle soul.
Peace & Love Always.
Lana Gratzer
Nigel was an amazing person and kind soul. I knew him vaguely – Wish I’d gotten to know him better. My condolences to his family and close friends.
Nicole Ryan
“It’s how did you fight — and why?
And though you be done to the death, what then?
If you battled the best you could,
If you played your part in the world of men,
Why, the Critic will call it good.
Death comes with a crawl, or comes with a pounce,
And whether he’s slow or spry,
It isn’t the fact that you’re dead that counts,
But only how did you die?”
Leslie Combemale
I met and spent time with Nigel only on a handful of occasions, but every time he was always fully engaged and curious about my life, and later about my husband Michael’s, with whom he shared musicianship. It was passion for music and an open heart to all that made me, like so many, love and appreciate him. He was a compassionate and committed lover of life and the world is so much better for him having been here. Love to him and love to his family and friends. Always.
Sue Epstein
No words can do justice to the intensity of the loss. Feeling grateful to have known you and sadness that you’ve left us way too early. Always!
Dr. Joanne Margaret Hunter
That is such a beautiful tribute. He fought so hard for so long, and we all thought he beat it. He was such a fantastic soul and role model. I’m glad our paths crossed and he and I met face-to-face a couple of times (but I’m really more of a Facebook stalker than anything else because he was so awesome). I’m sorry for the family’s loss. My thoughts are with you all during this time of mourning. Peace be with you all.
Rebecca Abraham
Our friendship began with a snarky comment, and quickly became one of full trust, respect and admiration. You helped my emotionally and were always there for me when I needed a guiding light. I had so wished you could see Edward grow, but I promise your influences and drive for equality will live on through him, that he may pass it to others in his generation. Your memory will live on.
“And in the end, the love you take, I equal to the love you make”
Nigel gave so much love, and has received so much in return. God speed my friend. I hope to see you on the other side. 🙂
Shawny Coldiron
Little Brother you will be missed greatly by many.
My love and everlasting support to Hilary and all those who mourn your loss.
Lisa Davis Barker
I’ve known you since grade school and you’ve always been a sweet loving person. Loved watching you live on Facebook and catching up with you! RIP our friend.
Marie Todd
I knew Nigel from Facebook and then had the honor to meet him at an immersive Harry Potter event. He was an amazing person, and he will be sorely missed. His Snape ‘impersonation’ was spot on, and he touched many, many hearts. Check out his Facebook page to see the numerous photos of him interacting with his fans. In the Harry Potter world, we raise our wands in honor of someone who has died. When you see the little symbol /* on Facebook it means that person is raising their wand in honor of Nigel. My condolences to his family and friends.
Teri Hammer
Dad was so incredible, his capacity to love and bring people together was like a superpower. I’m really going to miss him. ❤️
Tarsie Franklin
A true gentleman, in all aspects of the word. Your grace and your spirit will be missed on this earth, but we know you are watching over us all.
Leigh Duke
Nigel was an amazing person, inside and out. Inspired by almost anything and a joy to be around. He’ll be missed dearly. Wands up Nigel.
John O’Mara
I counted Nigel as a friend and he will live forever in my heart and mind.
Francisca
-Being missed so terribly is the price for being loved so deeply-
We haven’t spoken much but you were always kind when we did. I will miss you.. life isn’t fair.. but I am happy you no longer have to fight.
Rest wel gentle soul, may we meet again.
Rodney Downs
You were a great soul to have met.
Debi Baron
Nigel was so warm, present, and full of loving energy and kindness. He was outspoken on bullying, opening himself fully to those in need of support, offering his own lovely sense of humor and perspective on humanity. He will forever remain a shining light in our fandom and always in our hearts /*
Annette Sternberg
Lovely tribute to a very kind man, You are already missed and will always be remembered.
Anna Decarolis
Nigel, you will be missed and always loved. To your family prayers, peace and love.
Pamela Kent
Life is a hard battle anyway. If we laugh and sing a little as we fight, it makes it all a bit easier. Some succeed, some fail, but it’s the effort that’s heroic. Go in peace my friend.
Abraham Klein
What a light upon this world. May his memory be a blessing.
Lyra Silverstein
A light has gone out. I will always remember Nigel for his kindness; his amazing gift of song and voice for positivity. He brought so much joy to those around him. May he Rest In Peace. Much love to his fiancée, family and friends.
April
I’m hope you knew how much you were loved and admired. We will all miss you. We shall see you in the next great adventure.
Sandra Love Pabst
I am so very sorry for your loss. If there’s anything I can do then please let me know.
Tara Sutterfield
My condolences to your family. You will always be professor snape to me. /*
Karen West
Hilary. My thoughts and prayers are with you, all the family and all his friends of this amazing man. All the things you have shared with me about Nigel, I feel I knew him, I just wish I could have met him. I love you babygirl and I will forever be here anytime you need me. R.I P. Nigel, fly handsome angel 👼🙏
Maureen Smathers
Susan, I’m so sorry for your loss. You and your family, as well as all those that your son touched with his obvious talent, will be in my thoughts and prayers.
greta joseph
Nigels legacy is infinate ..tho my heart is saddened for those living with the void he has left 🖤
Mayloni Minchew
Nigel, I am thankful to be your friend. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, music, philosophy , humour and time. We never met in person and yet you made a huge positive influence in my life. Thank you, your friend , Mayloni Minchew of Syracuse, Utah.
Sandra Cole
There are certain people you meet, then forget.
There are certain people that you can’t forget.
The voice, the heart, the compassion there are no words that can describe what a wonderful gift the Heavens brought to this earth for us to get to know.
He’s gone now. I’m very sad. But I know he’s in a better place. He’s in Heaven and I am grateful that I was gifted to have known this great man.
Rest in Peace Nigel. Thank you for the beautiful voice and music.
Michelle
I knew Nigel for a short time back in late 90’s we worked at an answering service. I had much respect for him. He was such a kind and friendly man. I know you will be missed. Rest in peace Nigel ❤🙏
Cynthia Leist
I met him only once.
And I will never forget !
Cindy
Sylvie prudhomme
Such a beautiful soul
Jennifer James
I have only known him a short time , but I feel lucky to have met him. Nigel was a very kind person , a great musician , singer & cosplayer. The world lost a very talented person and he will be deeply missed . My condolences to his family and loved ones.
Carol Stinson
I met Nigel at the first Harry Potter Con I attended. He made me feel so welcome in the cosplay community. I will miss this man who had such a great heart and soul. May you rest now, Nigel.
Milou
Even though I never met or even spoke to Nigel, I found comfort in watching his videos on Facebook. Reading that he passed away really hurt a lot. I can’t imagine how heartbroken his inner circle must feel right now. I’m sure he made this world a better place with sharing his thoughts and positive energy and I’m wishing his friends and family all the best.
Thank you, good sir. /*
Always
Debora Hanlon
Nigel’s kind and gentle spirit will always be a balm to those of us who loved him dearly. He was a true knight and this world is better for him having been born. I’ll miss him terribly. God speed my friend.💔
nikki-nic
oh nigel…. you will be missed. i am so glad i have kept a copy of your remastered ” i sail”, which i love to bits. though we never met in real life, i was honoured that you would consider me a friend, and i am forever grateful for that. fly high, sir, and meet me in a breeze in prague.
Sasha
Nigel was always a vibrant light in this world. He brought joy everywhere he went. He sparked passion and creativity in his wake. And all of those embers are alive in the souls who meet him. And those embers continue to grow in all of us, igniting into a flame that inspires us to be our best selves. Within us all, that flame will always live, and continue to grow and spread to those around us. His fire will never die. I love you Nigel. You left a huge impact on this universe. You will never be forgotten. And you will be missed. This world is a better place because you were in it. And wherever you are is a better place because you’re there now. Until we meet again my friend.
Jayda Cooke
🖤 “The song is ended, but the melody lingers on…” ~Irving Berlin 💚
There aren’t enough words to properly describe the kind of person he was. He had this way of making every person in his life feel special and important and seen. He was compassionate, kind, strong, supportive, patient, creative, and he stood up for others. I know he was a light in the dark for so many people.
He was also so f-ng talented and had a wonderful singing voice. He was (and always will be) a Rock Star to me.
The world is a darker, colder place without Nigel. I am so sad that my friend is gone, I am blessed to have known him. His family, fiancé, friends, and fans are in my thoughts, my soul aches for them, they have lost part of their hearts.
💚 “When you go away, it breaks my heart in two.” ~ Platform One 🖤
Maurice C Watson
I’ve been married to Nigel’s Bio-Mom for over 35 years. Through that time, we grew very close. I will miss our wonderful discussions and exchange of ideas and beliefs. Our convictions were profoundly similar, and he truly became my son. I will miss you, Nigel. I cherish the time we had together, and will carry you in my heart, always. Happiness and peace to you on your journey. I love you, Nigel.
Lily Tornetta
You are so incredibly loved and I’m so happy you always knew it, expressed it and shared it. You’re unforgettable to us all. I am grateful to have had my moments with you.
Mel
Sincères condoléances de la France, courage et pensées à la famille 🕊️💖
Jonathon Cotton
You were a good friend and so talented,You had an impact on so many lives.You will be missed.
G
R Melinda
My deepest, heartfelt sympathy to his loves, family and dearest friends. My prayers and thoughts are with you now and in the weeks to come.
Caroline Elderkamp
I never met Nigel in person but by following his social media & sending text messages to eachother I have met one of the kindness souls a special human being that had patience with you, giving love and support you through in what you do in your creativity and learning, sharing his music and sense of humor with you etc. I will miss and never forget you in that Nigel you will be truly missed in this world that is bitt darker without you Rest in Peace Nigel by sending my condolences to your family & friends to get them through these hard times.
Mary Beth Ryno
While I am forever grateful for the time I got to spend with Nigel, I wish we had more. As does anyone who knew him. Nigel had a way of making one feel like the most important person in the room. Unwaveringly kind, fiercely protective of those he loved. I’m honored to have been able to have him as a friend.
Michelle J
Nigel had a caring soul, amazing heart, and was very talented. The world is a bit darker without his light.
My heart and my condolences go his many loved ones.
Kevin M. Houghton
I first met Nigel at a Strampunk convention 10 years ago. He was always a kind man, a true gentleman in all things.
I will miss seeing and speaking with him.
Love you man.
Ingrid Homan-Smith
To one of the finest men of this generation:
May your light forever shine. Our memories never fade, and your legacy remain forever!!
Love you & miss you…
Ingrid
Jodi Gilliam
I never got the chance to meet you, but we shared a lot of mutual friends. You loved my niece Lawren Abigail Adams and you made her smile. Rest In Peace Nigel.
Laura L.
Most of us are not fortunate enough to find out how beloved we are before we pass. Nigel did. My deepest condolences to Hilary and his family. This kind, inspiring, and feisty soul made our lives and the world more magical for having been here. You will be dearly missed. Always. /*
Carrie Harris
“Always”
Marnie Barnes
So honored to have gotten to meet and get to know you, Nigel. You were always such a class act. I know you are looking over all of us and playing for your new friends. Much love & respect always.
Rob Sitcler
Meeting Nigel was an honor and my life feels bettered by having known him. He brought happiness, respect, and fun into the world and will be greatly missed.
Becky Finch
You were one of the best, Nigel, and I’m glad we had the fun times together that we had. I wish there had been more. I’m honored to have been able to play music with you. You will always hold a special place in the hearts of the Finches. -Always.
Lynn Fick
A wonderful man, sweet and smart and thoughtful. He will be missed in this world.
William Lucas
Nigel chased after his dreams with a ferocious brilliance. It meant so much to me that he frequently played my song “I Sail”. I feel blessed to have had him as a friend.
Laurie McPhee
Nigel was a Soul beloved by many and his passing leaves a great chasm in countless hearts. My deepest condolences to you, Hilary and Nigel’s Family. RIP Nigel and “Reap the Wild Wind”.
Michael Burgess & Ivy Rose Vixen (Chrissy)
A true gentleman and scholar. An awesome person to see and spend time with. Keep the light on my friend.
We will miss you.
Jonathan Schneck
Though we only knew each other briefly, I can say with certainty that my life was brightened by the time it spent in yours. Rest in peace Nigel.
Joyce McCarthy
Nigel came into my life for such a brief time, but has left an impression that I will treasure the rest of my life. Until we meet again, my friend. 🎸 /*
Criss Johnson
I am so sorry for the loss. Nigel was an amazing person and the world will miss him
Andrew Terranova
Nigel was a truly kind and beautiful person, who activity strove to make the world a little better, and did. He was an inspiration to many, and he will be missed.
Cristofer Strickland
I was fortunate to meet Nigel at a Harry Potter event at Disneyland.. I think it was November 2014. He was dressed as Snape and I was dressed as Draco. I never ask to take photos with people as I’m very shy but I really wanted one with him that day. I admired his excellent cosplay and love the character of Severus Snape. He was kindly agreed and took a couple pictures with me that I was very proud to share afterward. I immediately felt comfortable in his presence. He had a lovely welcoming and calm energy about him. I don’t find that with most people. Nigel is special. I miss him so much and wish him so much love and peace on his spirit’s journey.
Jordan Van Ryn
Since I first met Nigel back in 2014, I realized that there was no one else like him. Nigel was a person who not only brought magic and kindness to the community, but he was also funny, talented, kind, loving and supportive. Knowing him was a wonderful thing for me because not only did I get to meet a celebrity, but I found a friend within Nigel. I’ll always remember the times when I watched his videos and his livestreams. My heart goes out to Hilary during this tragic loss. I even planted a tree for him in Israel to honor his memory. Although Nigel left us too soon, we’ll always remember how he made us feel. He made us feel like we’re family. Nigel is our family. RIP Nigel, you will always be remembered.