Former Annapolis Mayor Pip Moyer Dies

Former Annapolis Mayor Roger W. “Pip” Moyer, who also served the city as an alderman, housing authority deputy director and elder statesman, died early Saturday morning, according to a news release from the city.

Moyer died peacefully at his home early this morning, after suffering from Parkinson’s disease, the city said. He was 80 years old.

“Pip” Moyer was first elected to the City Council in 1961, then elected mayor in 1965 and re-elected in 1969, serving two terms. He was a champion of historic preservation, expanding opportunities for the disadvantaged and civil rights.

In 1968, during the volatility that followed the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the city says Moyer was widely credited for keeping the peace in Annapolis, along with community leaders such as George Phelps Jr. and Joseph “Zastrow” Simms.

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After serving as mayor, Moyer remained a strong advocate for the underserved and served for many years as Deputy Director of the Annapolis Housing Authority. Moyer stayed active well into his retirement as a mentor and advisor to alderpersons, mayors and other elected officials who often sought his advice and counsel.

A native of Eastport, Moyer first gained prominence in his youth as a standout basketball player. After setting scoring records at Annapolis High School and the University of Baltimore, he joined the Army and helped the Fort Dix basketball team win the Army Championship in 1958. He then returned home and served as athletic director and boys’ basketball coach at St. Mary’s High School. In 1993, Pip became the first basketball player inducted into the Anne Arundel County Sports Hall of Fame.

Today, the City’s Community Recreation Center on Hilltop Lane bears Moyer’s name as a tribute both to his athletic prowess and to his lifelong legacy of bringing our community together.

“There are no words to express the sadness that so many people in Annapolis are feeling right now,” Mayor Michael Pantelides said in the relaese. “My heart goes out to the Moyer family as the City of Annapolis shares the loss and grieves with them.”

Pantelides has directed that all City flags are to be lowered to half-staff until Moyer is laid to rest. The city has no information on services at this time.

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