Meshach Taylor: Funeral Services on Saturday at Forest Lawn

Meshach Taylor, known for his role as the hilarious Anthony Bouvier in the 1980’s television sitcom “Designing Women”, died in his California home on June 28, 2014, according to TMZ. Family members say Meshach Taylor died after battling a terminal illness.

Meshach was surrounded by his family while on his deathbed. Taylor was 67-years old. News of his death leaked prematurely as media outlets were eager to relay the information to the public. His family posted a comment on Facebook to inform the public that Meshach Taylor was on his deathbed but was still clinging to life.

“It is with love and gratitude that we sorrowfully announce that our darling, amazingly brilliant and dynamic, Meshach, the incredible father, husband, son and friend has begun his grand transition. Our friends who know and love us, please offer your prayers for his peace and blazing light as he ascends to the heavens. Those who need to call the family please do. Those who desire to post memories, we are open and graciously accepting all gestures of peace. Love, the Taylor Family Tariq Taylor Yasmine Taylor Tamar Lashae Taylor Esme Taylor.”

A representative of the family touched on how long Meshach taylor had suffered with the terminal illness. Meshach Taylor family representative told E News that the beloved actor had battled colon cancer for over a year before the disease spread to his liver. The “Criminal Minds” actor was in hospice care at the time of his death.

Meshach Taylor’s Facebook fans took to the social media site to express their sadness about his passing. Here is a short compilation of comments on the actor’s death: “Another Great Actor has left us for Heaven. RIP Meshach Taylor.” “Sad…I enjoyed watching him on the show. Sending a prayer for him and his family – on stage and off.” “I’ll always remember him best as Hollywood from Mannequin.” “RIP Meshach, you will be missed! Rest with the Angels!!” “I remember the first movie I ever saw him in…The Omen! RIP Mr Taylor.”

Meshach Taylor played his role as the sometimes cross-dressing ex-con Anthony Bouvier so well that many accused the actor of being gay. In real life, Taylor was married with children. The comedy series “Designing Women” debuted on

on September 29, 1986. Cast mate Dixie Carter died in 2010.

Meshach Taylor’s wife Bianca, his four children and several grandchildren outlive the Massachusetts native, including his mother who just turned 100 years old. Services for Taylor will be held on Saturday, July 5, at Forest Lawn at the Memorial Park-Glendale location.