Toye Taylor, who served as Washington Parish’s first parish president, died on the 4th of July at age 71.
1n 1997 Washington Parish voters approved a change in government from the Police Jury to a Parish Council and Parish President.
Taylor, who was mayor of Bogalusa, ran for Washington Parish President in the fall of 1997. He won, and was sworn into office in 1998 as the first Washington Parish President.
He is chiefly remembered for being the first parish president and being largely responsible for organizing the present-day Washington Parish Government,
But Taylor also is recalled as the parish president who steered Washington Parish through the chaos of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. He was among the region’s political leaders who met with then-President George W. Bush in New Orleans after the hurricane.
After leaving office, Taylor remained involved in government, serving in the administrations of both Gov. Bobby Jindal and Gov. John Bel Edwards.
Funeral services for Toye Taylor will be held on Thursday, July 9, at 11 a.m. at Poole-Ritchie Funeral Home in Bogalusa.
Current Parish President Ryan Seal offered this statement concerning the passing of Toye Taylor:
“On behalf of Washington Parish Government, I extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mervin Etoy “Toye” Taylor Jr. following his passing.
As Washington Parish’s first elected Parish President, Toye Taylor played a significant role in the history of our parish government. His years of public service included serving as Mayor of Bogalusa, Parish President, and later in state government, reflecting a lifelong commitment to public service.
We recognize his place in the history of Washington Parish and extend our thoughts and prayers to Susan, his children, grandchildren, and all who mourn his loss during this difficult time.
May his family find comfort in the memories they shared, and may he rest in peace.”
