It is with profound sadness that RISC announces the passing of Joe Taylor, a founding partner, visionary, and dear friend, who left us at the age of 90. Joe entered the repossession industry in 1961 as a repossessor for Associates Finance Company and spent the decades that followed leaving an indelible mark on the profession — known throughout the industry as a man of calm, patience, and deep compassion for both the industry and the borrower alike.
In 1999, after recognizing the urgent need for change in the industry to better protect agents, consumers, and clients, Joe Taylor partnered with Stamatis Ferarolis to create what would become his defining legacy: the Certified Asset Recovery Specialist (CARS) program — the industry’s first nationally accepted repossession compliance certification. Working tirelessly alongside RISC CEO Stamatis Ferarolis, Joe and Stamatis developed the comprehensive education manual to support agents’ understanding of federal repossession law. To this day, CARS remains recognized by the legal and financial worlds as the cornerstone of all repossession compliance education programs.
Joe remained a trusted business partner and close friend to RISC until his retirement at the age of 82. In 2020, Joe was diagnosed with Lyme disease, a debilitating illness that brought him chronic pain, dizziness, and fatigue. With the steadfast support of his wife, Elizabeth, and his son, Brian, Joe pursued treatment and faced his illness with the same quiet strength and dignity that defined his character throughout his life.
“Joe was a true pioneer, industry advocate, and close personal friend. Joe’s legacy will live on through the CARS program.”
– Stamatis Ferarolis, CEO & Founder, RISC, LLC
Joe Taylor was one of the kindest and gentlest men the repossession industry has ever known. His passing is a loss felt deeply across the profession he dedicated his life to improving. Our heartfelt condolences go to his wife, Liz, his son, Brian, and all who had the honor of knowing him.
