Ruth Ashton Taylor Cause of Death

Ruth Ashton Taylor, the pioneering former CBS anchor and the first female newscaster on the West Coast, has passed away at the age of 101, as confirmed by her family. Born in Long Beach in 1922, Taylor’s remarkable career in radio and television news spanned over five decades, earning her accolades such as a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a Lifetime Achievement Emmy Award.

In 1951, Taylor made history by accepting a position as an anchor for CBS Los Angeles, then known as KNXT. This groundbreaking move marked her as a trailblazer in journalism, breaking gender barriers and paving the way for future generations of female broadcasters.

A graduate of Long Beach Polytechnic High School, Taylor continued her education at Scripps College in Claremont and later earned a master’s degree in journalism from Columbia University, officially launching her historic career.

Reflecting on her journey, Taylor recalled a pivotal moment in 2008 when she became the only female member of Ed Murrow’s documentary team. “The most important thing that happened to me in the early part of my life was when Ed Murrow gave me an opportunity to do a documentary,” she shared during an interview with Pat Harvey.

Initially hired by KNXT to cover “The Woman’s Angle,” Taylor went beyond expectations, turning the opportunity into comprehensive coverage that included features and interviews with celebrities and presidents. Her impact on the field of journalism, coupled with her trailblazing spirit, leaves an enduring legacy that has inspired and opened doors for countless women in the industry.