Jim Taylor Death, Brixmor Washington Obituary: Former CEO Of Brixmor Property Group has Died

The real estate industry is mourning the passing of James M. Taylor Jr., former Chief Executive Officer of Brixmor Property Group, whose leadership, vision, and influence helped shape one of the nation’s leading owners and operators of open-air shopping centers. Brixmor announced his passing while paying tribute to his lasting contributions to the company, the retail real estate sector, and the many professionals whose careers were shaped under his leadership.

Taylor served as Chief Executive Officer of Brixmor from 2016 until his retirement in December 2025. Over nearly a decade, he guided the company through a period of significant transformation, strategic growth, and industry-wide change. His leadership strengthened Brixmor’s position within the retail real estate investment trust (REIT) sector and helped establish it as a dominant force in open-air shopping center ownership and management.

Throughout his tenure, Taylor navigated a rapidly evolving commercial real estate landscape shaped by shifting consumer behavior and the rise of e-commerce. He led efforts to reposition Brixmor’s portfolio toward high-performing open-air shopping centers anchored by grocery stores, value retailers, and service-based tenants, a strategy that supported long-term stability and growth during a challenging period for traditional retail.

Brixmor extended its condolences to his wife, Alice, his daughters Gracie and Mary Lyle, and all family members, friends, colleagues, and industry peers mourning his loss.

Current Brixmor CEO and President Brian T. Finnegan described Taylor as a leader whose influence extended far beyond financial and operational achievements, emphasizing his ability to bring clarity to complex challenges and inspire those around him.

Colleagues remember Taylor as a disciplined and thoughtful executive committed to strategic planning, strong governance, and talent development. He was widely respected for fostering a culture rooted in collaboration, accountability, integrity, and professional growth. Many within the organization credit him with mentoring future leaders and creating opportunities for advancement across the company.

Finnegan noted that Taylor’s most enduring legacy may be his dedication to people, describing him as a mentor, friend, and leader who consistently placed people at the center of his work and relationships.

Brixmor Chair of the Board Sheryl M. Crosland reflected on her decades-long professional relationship with Taylor, highlighting his warmth, authenticity, and ability to make others feel valued. She noted that his pride in his family and his commitment to his team were central to who he was as a leader and person.

Today, Brixmor manages hundreds of open-air shopping centers across the United States, and many of the principles established during Taylor’s leadership continue to guide the company’s direction and success.

As colleagues, friends, and industry leaders reflect on his passing, James M. Taylor Jr. is remembered not only for his professional accomplishments but also for his mentorship, integrity, and lasting impact on those around him.

His legacy lives on through the people he inspired, the organization he helped shape, and the broader retail real estate industry he influenced.

He will be deeply missed and respectfully remembered.