Retired CPO Charles F. Taylor Jr.

Retired CPO Charles F. Taylor, Jr., Age 78, of Gulfport, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on September 2, 2025, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Charles was a man whose life was defined by service, devotion, and quiet strength. He gave his best to his country and his community, serving seven years in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, where he was awarded the Purple Heart. He later continued his calling with the U.S. Navy Seabees as an equipment operator, proudly retiring with the rank of Chief Petty Officer after 22 years of combined distinguished military service.

Between his military service, Charles worked with the Tennessee Valley Authority, helping to build Pickwick Dam on the Tennessee River. Even after retiring from the Navy, he continued giving of himself, working with the Department of the Navy for 17 years in civil service. His life was truly one of dedication.

Outside of his career, Charles was a man of simple joys and deep passions. He loved animals and the outdoors, the rumble of antique cars, classic Westerns, and sharing stories of military history. He found comfort in Southern cooking and joy in family gatherings, especially on the banks of the Tennessee River, where many of his happiest memories were made.

Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Charles F. Taylor, Sr., and Edna Lowry Taylor. Left to treasure his memory are his wife, Bettie Taylor; his daughter, Vicki Taylor; his son, Paul (Ruth) Taylor; his grandson, Lowry Taylor; and his sisters, Pat Love and Kay Taylor. To them, and to all who knew him, he was a source of love, wisdom, and steady guidance.

The family wishes to express their deepest gratitude to the Armed Forces Retirement Home for the past 4 years and Hospice of Light for the care and compassion they have shown to Charles and his family over the past few weeks.

Charles will be laid to rest with full military honors — a fitting tribute to a man whose life was lived with courage, service, and love.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Taylor family.

Services will be private.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Taylor family.