Essray Taliaferro, Jr.

Essray Taliaferro Jr. transitioned from this life on Thursday, May 02, 2024 in a Washington DC Hospital.

Essray Taliaferro Jr. was born on March 18th, 1965, to the late Essray Taliaferro Sr. and Martha Taliaferro in Smithfield, Virginia.

Essray attended Smithfield High School, Class of 1983. There he was a star athlete on the track and football teams. He was a regional champion discus thrower and an All-State linebacker. His hard work and passion for football led to him receiving a full scholarship to East Carolina University (ECU). At ECU, he exceled on the defensive side of the ball playing linebacker. Essray later graduated from ECU with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice in 1988.

Essray relocated to Northern Virginia, where he received his first law enforcement position with the Arlington Police Department. He later decided to advance his professional training to enhance his career. In May 1993, he graduated from the Metropolitan Police Academy and was assigned to the 3rd District as a police officer. In May 1997, he was promoted to Sergeant and was assigned to the 5th District. In February 1999, he was promoted to Lieutenant and was assigned to the 3rd District.  

In 2000, he was promoted to Captain. He finished number one on the final Captain’s promotional list. He later advanced his career to the position of Inspector. In December of 2017, he retired from the Metropolitan Police Department. It was often said one of his greatest attributes on the police department was being a great teacher of policy, administrative paperwork, and having a firm understanding of the job requirements for all ranks.

Essray grew up attending Mt. Tabor Church of God in Christ. It was there that his foundation of the Lord was established. He was a member of the Drama Guild, the Junior Choir, and Young People Willing Workers. This foundation and reverence for the Lord carried him throughout his life. He was very intentional to know that his help and strength came from the Lord. During the later years of his life, he attended Greater Morning Star Apostolic Ministries in Largo, MD.

The greatest joy of his life was his three children: Essray Taliaferro III, Erin Taliaferro, and Logan Taliaferro. He was a very present father who loved to spend quality time with his children. He coached them in youth sports, enjoyed visiting new restaurants with them, and attended professional sporting events with them. Later in life, he experienced the new joy of being a grandfather to Essray Taliaferro IVand Zoë Taliaferro.

Essray had an infectious personality that drew people to him. He enjoyed spending time in Smithfield with his family, playing golf, and talking sports. He was an absolute diehard Dallas Cowboys fan who supported them through the championships and disappointing years.

He was preceded in death by his father Essray Taliaferro Sr. and brother Darryl
Taliaferro.

He leaves a legacy of love and memories for his son Essray Taliaferro III (Erica); two daughters Erin Taliaferro and Logan Taliaferro; two adoring grandchildren; Essray Taliaferro IV and Zoë Taliaferro; his loving mother Martha Taliaferro; brothers Carlos Taliaferro and Brad Parker; one uncle Harold Taliaferro; three aunts Burnette Delk, Sadie Reid, and Vergie Cornick and a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

On Friday, May 10, 2024 viewing will take place from 3-6pm at Shivers Funeral Chapel. At 12pm on Saturday, May 11, 2024 a Celebration of Life will be held at Main St. Baptist Church Smithfield, VA. Please keep the Taliaferro family in your prayers.