Jul 22
Obituaries: Lisle Richard Taaje
BAR Staff READ TIME: 1 MIN.
June 15, 1953 – June 3, 2025
Lisle Taaje, 71, artist, activist, author, and beloved friend, passed away peacefully at his home in Palm Springs, California on June 3, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer.
Born in Palo Alto, California, Lisle dedicated his life to compassion, creativity, and community. He was the founder of City Model Management, where he mentored countless models with warmth, integrity, and a deep belief in their potential.
Lisle was a tireless advocate for those living with HIV/AIDS. He founded Make Love Not AIDS, a nonprofit that mobilized the fashion and arts communities to raise awareness and support. Diagnosed with HIV in the 1980s, he lived with strength and purpose.
For over a decade, he spent every Christmas Day volunteering in homeless shelters, serving meals and dignity to those in need.
He was preceded in death by his partner, Paul Baldacci; his parents; siblings; and beloved dog, Red. He is survived by his aunt, cousins, niece, nephews, loyal dog Rex, and a wide circle of devoted friends and chosen family.
A memorial picnic will be held on Sunday, October 26, from noon to 3 p.m. at the National AIDS Memorial Grove in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco.
