Democratic Delegate Kevin Kelly Taylor was a prominent figure in Maryland politics for nearly 30 years, serving in the state’s House of Delegates from 1975 to 2003.
Taylor was a graduate of the University of Notre Dame, where he was a member of the Air Force ROTC. He began his career as a restaurant owner before embarking on his political journey.
Throughout his time in office, Taylor was a staunch advocate for his district, which included Cumberland, an area that had been struggling economically for some time.
One of Taylor’s major accomplishments was securing millions of dollars in state and private investments for his district, including the state-backed Rocky Gap Lodge and Golf Resort.
His efforts to revitalize the local economy were widely celebrated and helped to improve the lives of many in his community.
In addition to his economic development work, Taylor was also known for his legislative accomplishments.
Over the course of his tenure, he authored numerous pieces of legislation, including the “One Maryland” bill.
This legislation aimed to provide tax havens and other incentives for businesses to invest in depressed parts of the state, which helped to spur economic growth and development in struggling communities.
Despite his successes, Taylor’s time in office was not without its challenges. In the 2002 election, he lost his seat in the House of Delegates after serving for nearly three decades.
Many attribute his loss to redrawn legislative district lines that added heavily Republican precincts to his traditionally Democratic district.
Additionally, his support for some gun control laws was unpopular in the rural parts of his district, which also likely contributed to his defeat.
Casper R. Taylor Jr. Cause of Death
Former Maryland House Speaker Casper R. Taylor, Jr., who served in the Maryland legislature as a Democrat from 1975 to 2003, has passed away at the age of 89 on Monday morning.
Taylor had been an influential politician in the state for nearly three decades, during which he was widely known for his role in enacting important legislation.
Scarpelli Funeral Home, located in Cumberland, is in charge of arrangements for Taylor’s family. A viewing will be held on Friday from 4-7 pm, with a Christian Wake at 7 pm.
The Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday at 1 pm at St. Mary’s Church on Oldtown Road.
Aiva Arthur
