Maryland Loses Mentor and Crime Analyst Duane “Skip” Baylor, Beloved Coach
MARYLAND — The Maryland community is mourning the passing of Duane “Skip” Baylor, a dedicated crime analyst, respected public servant, and beloved baseball coach whose life embodied service, mentorship, and passion. Baylor passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire everyone who knew him — from his colleagues in law enforcement to the hundreds of young athletes he guided on the baseball field.
A Life of Dedication and Service
Born and raised in Maryland, Duane “Skip” Baylor devoted his life to serving his community with honor and integrity. Over his long and accomplished career, he worked as a crime analyst for both the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD) and later the Howard County Police Department (HCPD). Known for his professionalism and insight, Skip played a crucial role in helping his department interpret and analyze data that made local neighborhoods safer.
His colleagues remember him as a man of intelligence, reliability, and quiet strength — someone who never sought the spotlight but whose work always made a difference. Those who worked closely with him often spoke of his dedication, his humor, and his ability to uplift others even in challenging times.
The Coach with a Heart for Baseball
Outside of law enforcement, Skip’s greatest joy came from baseball. Known affectionately as “Coach Skip”, he spent years mentoring youth baseball teams such as the HCYP Raiders and Maryland Pride. He poured his heart into teaching young players not only how to win games, but how to grow as people — emphasizing teamwork, respect, and perseverance.
Parents and players alike describe him as the kind of coach who believed in every child’s potential. He was patient, kind, and deeply encouraging — the coach who stayed after practice to help a player perfect their swing or who offered a word of confidence when a young athlete was struggling.
For Skip, coaching was never just about baseball. It was about helping kids learn life lessons through the game — how to handle defeat gracefully, how to celebrate victory humbly, and how to support one another as teammates and friends.
Remembered for His Compassion and Kindness
In the days following his passing, tributes poured in from across Maryland. Friends and colleagues from both the law enforcement and sports communities remembered Skip as a mentor, a leader, and a man whose kindness touched every life he encountered.
Fellow officers recalled his steady guidance, while parents shared stories of how he helped shape their children’s character. Former players spoke of him with deep respect, remembering the jokes, encouragement, and lessons that carried them long after their time on the field.
Legacy of a Life Well Lived
Duane “Skip” Baylor’s life was defined by his selflessness and compassion. Whether behind a computer analyzing data or standing on a baseball diamond coaching kids, he gave everything he had to help others. His ability to balance professional excellence with personal warmth made him a beloved figure in two very different communities — both united in grief and gratitude for his life.
As his family and friends gather to celebrate his memory, they are joined by countless others who were influenced by his generosity and kindness. His impact on Maryland’s law enforcement and youth sports will not be forgotten.
A Final Tribute
Coach Skip’s story is one of integrity, mentorship, and love — a reminder that greatness is not measured by titles, but by the lives we touch. His laughter, wisdom, and dedication will forever echo through the dugouts he once stood in and the hearts of those he inspired.
Rest in peace, Du ane “Skip” Baylor. Your legacy of service, kindness, and mentorship will continue to shine brightly in Maryland and beyond.
