Mississippi community in mourning after sudden death of Heidelberg mayor

The town of Heidelberg is mourning after the sudden death of its mayor this weekend.

WTOK in Meridian reports that first responders were called to the home of Mayor David Taylor II for a medical emergency. Taylor, 42, was found unconscious when medical personnel arrived.

According to Jasper County Deputy Coroner Jessie Crosby, Taylor was pronounced dead at 8:21 p.m., despite immediate attempts at cardio-pulmonary resuscitation.

Taylor, a public school teacher for over 14 years, was sworn in as mayor on July 1, 2021. He was in the final year of his term, which was set to end on June 30, 2025. Known for his commitment to education and community service, Taylor’s leadership was marked by a deep connection to the people of Heidelberg.

A Heidelberg High School graduate, Taylor furthered his education at Alcorn State University and William Carey University. He leaves behind a wife and two children.

“From our whole department, our deepest condolences go out to his family,” Heidelberg Police Department Assistant Chief Cornell White said.