Noel C. Taylor facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Noel C. Taylor
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|---|---|
| 41st Mayor of Roanoke, Virginia | |
| In office October 27, 1975 – June 30, 1992 |
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| Preceded by | Roy L. Webber |
| Succeeded by | David A. Bowers |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Noel Calvin Taylor
July 15, 1924 Moneta, Virginia, U.S. |
| Died | October 29, 1999 (aged 75) Roanoke, Virginia, U.S. |
| Political party | Republican |
| Spouse | Barbara Smith |
| Alma mater |
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| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service | United States Army |
| Years of service | 1943–1945 |
| Battles/wars | World War II |
Noel Calvin Taylor (born July 15, 1924 – died October 29, 1999) was an important leader in Roanoke, Virginia. He served as the city's mayor from 1975 to 1992. Mr. Taylor was also a pastor at High Street Baptist Church for many years. He played a big part in helping Roanoke become a more equal place for everyone in the late 1960s. Many people remember him as one of the most influential leaders in the city's history.
Contents
Noel C. Taylor: Early Life and Education
Noel Taylor was born on July 15, 1924, in a town called Moneta, Virginia. He went to Bluefield State College, which is a historically black college. He graduated with honors in 1949.
After that, he continued his studies. He earned a Master of Divinity degree in 1955 and a Doctor of Divinity degree in 1959 from Virginia Seminary and College. In 1963, he also received a Master of Arts in Religious Education from New York University.
Teaching and Ministry Beginnings
After finishing college in 1949, Mr. Taylor started working as a teacher in the public schools of Bedford County, Virginia. From 1950 to 1952, he was an elementary school principal.
In 1950, Noel Taylor became an ordained Baptist Church Pastor. He led several churches, including First Baptist Church in Clifton Forge, Virginia in 1954. He also served at First Baptist Church (Berkley) in Norfolk, Virginia from 1955 to 1958. Later, he became the pastor of High Street Baptist Church in Roanoke, Virginia from 1958 to 1961. He continued to lead the High Street Baptist Church until his death in 1999.
Noel C. Taylor: A Political Leader
In 1970, Noel Taylor made history when he was elected to the Roanoke, Virginia City Council. He was the first African American to achieve this. He then served as vice-mayor from 1974 to 1975.
Becoming Mayor of Roanoke
In 1975, Mr. Taylor was chosen to become the Mayor of Roanoke. He finished the term of the previous mayor, Roy L. Webber, who had passed away. In 1976, he was elected by the people as the first African American mayor of Roanoke, Virginia. He served as mayor for many years, from 1976 until 1992. He was a member of the Republican Party.
During his time as mayor, he was seen as one of the most important leaders in Roanoke's history. He helped make downtown Roanoke a better place and oversaw the first steps in developing Valley View Mall.
Noel C. Taylor: Community Involvement
Beyond his political and church roles, Noel Taylor was very active in his community. He served on the boards of many important organizations. These included the First National Exchange Bank and the Virginia Board of the American Red Cross. He also helped guide the Blue Cross and Blue Shield for Southwestern Virginia.
He was involved with the Baptist Children's Home and the Blue Ridge Mountains Council of the Boy Scouts of America. His dedication showed how much he cared about helping people and improving the city.
Death
Noel Calvin Taylor passed away on October 29, 1999, in Roanoke, Virginia. He was buried in southern Bedford County.
