LIFE AND LEGACY:

First Sergeant (Retired) Charles H. Taylor, Sr.

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of First Sergeant (Retired) Charles H. Taylor, Sr. 92, of Highland Springs, Virginia, who entered eternal rest on January 19, 2025 at 8:20pm surrounded by his loving wife of 40 years and son in love. Charles was affectionately known as "POP" and "POP Taylor". He was born on July 4, 1932. He was one of eleven children born to John and Berneice Taylor.

While in High School, Taylor began working at age 16 at the local candy store. Following the family tradition, Taylor joined the Army at age 17.

Military Service

Taylor's first duty station was at Fort Knox, Kentucky. After completing basic training, he was deployed to Korea, where he served 13 months in combat as part of the 24th Infantry Regiment and these soldiers were referred to as the Buffalo Soldiers. Taylor was one of the last Buffalo Soldiers of the 24th Infantry Regiment "Deuce Four in Korea" who were the soldiers who wore the all black uniforms. Following his service in Korea, he was stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia, where he reenlisted, then served as a fire chief with a fire department in Japan for three years. Upon returning to Korea, Taylor became the First Sergeant of a Transportation Company and sustained injuries in battle, earning his first Purple Heart.

After returning to the United States, Taylor served at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore) in Georgia, and Fort Bragg (now Fort Liberty) in North Carolina, before being deployed to Vietnam. During this deployment, he earned three Bronze Stars for valiant service and a second Purple Heart for injuries sustained in combat. His career continued with assignments at Fort Devens, Massachusetts; Fort Hood, Texas; and a final overseas posting in Thailand. Over two decades of honorable service, Taylor earned 3 Bronze stars, numerous awards, citations, and plaques, reflecting his dedication and bravery.

Business Career and Community Leadership

After retiring from the Army, Taylor transitioned to civilian life by joining Philip Morris in management as a foreman in 1970. He worked there until 1976, when he established his own company, C.H. Taylor Oil Company Inc. As the head of one of Richmond's most recognized Black-owned businesses, Taylor led his company successfully for over 40 years.

Taylor's contributions to his community were as remarkable as his military and business careers. In 1972, he assisted in the formation of the Military Retirees Club of Richmond (MRC) and became a charter member. Taylor was the last active surviving charter member. Later, in 1976, he co-founded the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10654. Both organizations remain active in supporting inner-city youth through special programs and scholarships for deserving Richmond area students. Taylor was an active participant in the MRC, attending membership and board meetings and serving as a guest speaker at key events, including the MRC's inaugural and second annual fundraising galas in 2023 and 2024.

In recognition of his distinguished military and community service, the MRC established the First Sergeant (Ret) Charles H. Taylor Legacy of Service Award, which is presented annually to members who continue to serve their communities in the Richmond metropolitan area after military service.

Additionally, Taylor was a proud member of the Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons, Mocha Temple, for over 40 years and a devoted member of Providence Baptist Church for more than 77 years. His unwavering commitment to service and faith was a cornerstone of his life.

He was predeceased by his parents, John E. and Berneice C. Taylor; one son, Mark Xavier Taylor; one sister, Berneice Robinson, and five brothers, John, Thomas, Alexander, Robert and Haywood. Charles shared his beautiful life where he survived with his devoted loving wife and best friend, Doris S. Taylor; children, Patricia Armstead, Crystal (Kevin) Hendricks, Charles Taylor Jr., and very devoted son in love, Vincent W. Langhorne. He leaves behind to cherish his memory and legacy, 9 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 4 sisters, Shirley Hayes, Margaret Bailey (Allen), Gloria Carmicheal, and Barbara Phillips; and a host of nieces and nephews, special dedicated nephew, Alexander Taylor; and niece, Michelle Dortch. He leaves five brothers-in-law and three sisters-in-law, Lifelong special friend, Richard Davis (Nancy); a host of Military Retirees club members, and a special devoted and affectionate daughter in love, Kathryn Bentley. In his spare time, Taylor enjoyed playing cards and golf, spending time at the military retirees club, mentoring others, and sharing his stories, wisdom, and knowledge. His life was defined by his dedication to family, community, and country, leaving behind a legacy of courage, leadership, and service.

Conclusion

Through his distinguished military service, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering dedication to his community, First Sergeant (Ret) Charles H. Taylor, Sr. leaves an enduring legacy. His life's work continues to inspire those who follow in his footsteps, reflecting the values of integrity, resilience, and service to others.