NMHS | March 2023

In Memoriam

John Paul Taylor

The Museum of New Mexico Foundation wishes to honor and remember John Paul Taylor, a longtime member of the Museum of New Mexico Board of Regents.  Mr. Taylor was a revered educator for the Las Cruces Public School system and nine-term member of the New Mexico House of Representatives.  As a legislator, he championed art and culture nationally and throughout the state and sponsored the legislation that created the Department of Cultural Affairs nearly 25 years ago.  Most recently, he served as honorary chair of the Foundation’s Campaign for New Mexico History.  A capstone of Mr. Taylor’s extraordinary legacy is the Taylor-Reynolds-Barela Historic Site in Mesilla which he, his wife Mary Helen Daniels Taylor, and children donated to the state of New Mexico.  Affectionately known as “J. Paul,” he was kind, compassionate and exceedingly generous. The Foundation is eternally grateful for Mr. Taylor’s service to the Museum of New Mexico system and extends its heartfelt condolences to the Taylor family.

Board of Trustees and Staff

Museum of New Mexico Foundation