Leon R. Taylor was born in Asbury Park, New Jersey on October 26, 1883. His education was attained at Denison University in Ohio. He went on to study law and then established his legal career in New Jersey. Taylor first entered politics as a member and speaker of the New Jersey House of Representatives, a position he held three terms. On October 28, 1913 Governor James F. Fielder resigned from office, and Taylor, who was speaker of the house at the time, assumed the duties of the governorship. He served in this capacity until January 20, 1914, when he then retired from political life. He continued to stay active in his legal career, as well as serving as captain in the Red Cross, a post he held from 1917 to 1919. Governor Leon R. Taylor passed away on April 1, 1924 in Denver, Colorado.