The actor is best known for his Emmy-nominated role on "Designing Women," the late-eighties comedy about four interior designers and their quick-witted assistant. (Via CBS / "Designing Women")

Taylor was originally invited on the show for a one-episode guest appearance but ended up remaining on the show for the rest of its seven seasons. (Via Wikimedia Commons / Lia Chang)

He's also remembered for his turn as Hollywood Montrose in the 1987 cult film "Mannequin." (Via 20th Century Fox / "Mannequin")

Most recently, Taylor appeared on two episodes of "Criminal Minds." Prior to that he had brief roles on hit shows like "Hannah Montana" and "The Drew Carey Show." (Via IMDB)

His family announced on Facebook Thursday that Taylor was near the end. "It is with love and gratitude that we sorrowfully announce that our darling, amazingly brilliant and dynamic, Meschach, the incredible father, husband, son and friend has begun his grand transition." (Via Facebook / Meshach Taylor)

About the Author

Keep Reading

Take a Halloween Hike at the Chattahoochee Nature Center on Friday through Sunday and meet animals along the way. (Courtesy of Chattahoochee Nature Center)

Credit: Photo courtesy of Chattahoochee Nature Center

Featured

Housing affordability is the top concern for metro Atlanta residents, according to a new survey. (Ben Hendren for the AJC)

Credit: Ben Hendren