Marlyn Elizabeth Taylor, 19, captured the hearts of the audience and was crowned Miss Jamaica 1969 at a packed National Arena. Representing Kingston and St. Andrew, Taylor stood out for her poise and charm, earning the top spot over fellow city girls Sheila Lorna Neil and Heather Dawn Batche, who placed second and third respectively. A favourite with the crowd, she was crowned by the 1968 winner, Karlene Waddell, and will receive scholarships, cash prizes, and the opportunity to represent Jamaica at the Miss World contest.

Published Sunday, August 3, 1969  

Marlyn wins in city-girl sweep

Marlyn Elizabeth Taylor, a 19-year-old cashier, was crowned Miss Jamaica 1969 at a packed National Arena on August 2, 1969.

Marlyn, who is also Miss Kingston and St. Andrew, wore the sash Miss Stylaneze. The three runners-up were city girls. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Taylor of 20 Meadow Way, Meadowbrook.

Her vital statistics are 35-25-36. She is 5 ft 6 in tall and tips the scale at 199 lbs. Reading, dancing, and swimming are her hobbies.

The new Miss Jamaica, a favourite with the crowd, was crowned by the 1968 winner, Karlene Waddell.

Sheila Lorna Neil (Miss Motor Owners Mutual) was placed second and crowned Miss Independence by the 1968 holder of the title, Carol Gerrow. Heather Dawn Batche (Miss John R. Wong) was in third place, winning the crown Miss Festival. She was crowned by Audrey Dell, 1968 Miss Festival. Marjorie Cooke (Miss Sheraton-Kingston) placed fourth.

In the fifth and sixth places, respectively, were Audrey Townsend (Miss Eve) of St. Thomas and Beverley Riley (Miss Kenwood) of St. Mary.

Major prizes for Miss Jamaica are the Max Facto 600 scholarship, the L. S. Panton 500 cash award, and the J.B.C. trip to the Miss World Contest.

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