Former Oswego East High School Football Player Ethan Bryce ‘Ebay’ Taylor, Dies At 22, Following a Cancer Battle

A Tragic Loss!

December 15, 2026

This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 15, 2026

Ethan Bryce “Ebay” Taylor was a standout multi-sport athlete at Oswego East. He played football, baseball, soccer, and basketball. He started at center for the football team.

Taylor, 22, died December 2, 2026, after a 16-month battle with adrenal cortisol carcinoma. He was surrounded by family and loved ones at the time of his demise.

Born November 5, 2003, in Aurora, Taylor was the son of Kevin and Christina Taylor. He was a brother to Jalen and a sister, Arianna.

He was preceded in death by his twin brothers, Logan and Savion. Family described him as “sunshine,” filling rooms with laughter and care.

Taylor was just 22 years old. (Source: Facebook)

At Oswego East, Taylor earned respect as a leader. Coaches praised his work ethic and ability to lift teammates. He protected others on and off the field.

After high school, he studied construction project management at College of DuPage. He later enrolled at Illinois State University.

Also see: Valdosta Community Mourns Beloved Coach Josh Lale’s Sudden Death, a Devoted Mentor and Father Who Brightened Countless Lives

Gone Way Too Soon

One week before classes, he was diagnosed with a rare adrenal cancer. Over 16 months, he faced surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Even during treatment, Taylor cooked for family and friends. He attended classes when he could. He lifted others with humor and kindness.

His family said he “never complained” and often described himself as “Built Different.” That resilience defined his final months.

Teammates remember him as steady and dependable. He brought energy to practices and comfort to friends. He led by example.

Community leaders and residents offered support. Aurora Ward 9 representative Edward Bugg asked people to donate to a GoFundMe for the family.

“If you are able to donate or share the fundraiser, every little bit helps,” Bugg said. The community responded with generosity and prayers.

Condolences poured in online. Jen Mendoza wrote, “How incredibly sad. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family.”

Kelly Doner added, “This devastates my heart for this amazing family. Sending so many prayers for strength.”

Milena Russo also shared memories of old times with Taylor,

Ebay was such an amazing person to everyone around him. We became great friends early on , and he was always there for me. From playing video games together, cooking after school, or playing sports outside, every memory was a good one. I know all the homestead kids are blessed to of had eBay in our lives.

Milena’s brother Joey wrote,

“I used to go over to the Taylors’ house, tagging along with my sister Milena because I knew Ebay always had Call of Duty. My parents wouldn’t let me play that game because I was too young, but when I went to their house, Ebay was always open to letting me play with him and my sister too. He always made us laugh and was always looking out for me. I will always appreciate and never forget how nice and responsible he was especially when he had to look after me.”

Taylor’s family announced plans to donate to adrenal cancer research in his name. They thanked everyone for the love and support during his illness.

Friends and coaches remembered his warmth. He cared for others, offered comfort, and brought laughter even in hard moments.

Funeral services are scheduled for January 3, 2026, at Beidelman-Kunsch Funeral Home in Naperville. Visitation begins at 1 p.m., followed by a celebration of life at 5 p.m.

Family requested privacy while grieving. They asked that contributions in Ethan’s memory be directed to adrenal cancer research.

Ethan Bryce “Ebay” Taylor will be remembered for his leadership on the field, his kindness off it, and the courage that defined his life.

People also viewed: The Wellington School Head Basketball Coach Artie Taylor, 50, Passed Away, Leaving Wife and Sons Heartbroken!

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Anish Koirala has loved sports since he was a kid. He grew up playing basketball and soccer, and that passion stayed with him over the years. Today, Anish works as a writer and editor, sharing his knowledge and love for the game through articles and stories. He uses his playing experience to make his writing clear, thoughtful, and fun to read.

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