Hi Dennis5mile,
I know you want it back in the taskbar but I use Windows Key + Period for Emoji and windows key + V for Clipboard.
Works on all apps, etc.
Yes, I do the same thing, and I also right click on the screen to bring up the context menu which also displays the emoji choice which brings up the emoji panel from which you can get to the clipboard as well, but none of that makes it easier than the icon being in the task bar.......... There is no need of pressing the windows key + . or + V, just click the icon and up it comes the emoji panel.
Also, my post is nothing more than a suggestion/wishful want.........
Dennis5mile
p.s. you can find my post in the feedback hub at this link.