By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – When 90-year-old Mayo Taylor was elected to the Alabaster City Council in the 1970s, the state was a much different place than it is today.

Only a few years separated from integration in the South, Taylor faced an uphill battle when running for the position, as council members in the majority white city were elected at-large rather than by wards, as they are today.

“Mayo Taylor is no stranger to overcoming opposition and challenges. On the heels of integration, Mayo was encouraged by Shelby County Sheriff Charles ‘Red’ Walker to run for City Council to make an Alabaster for all citizens and provide a voice for her area,” Alabaster Mayor Marty Handlon said as she read a proclamation in Taylor’s honor during an Oct. 15 City Council meeting. “Mayo did not give into fear when she received threats during her citywide campaign, for one of five spots on the City Council. Her tenacity and walk without reproach paid off as she became the first African-American woman to serve on the Alabaster City Council from 1976-1980.”

Taylor, who has spent her entire life in Alabaster, was in the spotlight during the council meeting, as Handlon presented her with a key to the city in front of a packed house at Alabaster City Hall.

“She is a remarkable woman, and I didn’t know all these things about her until I attended her 90^th birthday party. Miss Mayo is just full of love, full of grace,” Handlon said, referencing Taylor being elected in a citywide at-large vote in 1975. “That speaks volumes about our city, about the community we had back in that day, and I still feel like we have today.”

During her tenure on the council, Taylor worked to get water lines and street signs in the Simmsville community off Alabama 119, and played a major role in adding lighting to Larry Simmons Stadium. Her motto is “love people, because love conquers all,” and she has three children, nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. She has been attending Liberty Baptist Church since she was 8 years old.

“I recognize the service and character of Mayo Taylor, who in distinguishing herself, has brought honor to her family, friends and this city,” Handlon said.