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Charlotte Taylor, a long-time Plymouth resident, died peacefully on Aug. 10. She was the devoted wife of her husband Vance, to whom she had been married for 41 years until his passing in 1992.

Born Feb. 11, 1923, and raised in Howard Beach, New York, Charlotte most recently resided in Guilford, and spent much time with her son Vance and daughter-in-law Bethany and their family. She had spoken of how her greatest joy was her two great-granddaughters, Addison and Ellie. Her other pride and joy was the United States Coast Guard, in which she had served during World War II, and then being a member of the American Legion for 75 years, for which she was posthumously presented a plaque by Plymouth Post 20. Charlotte had also been honored earlier this year as the grand marshal of the Terryville Memorial Day Parade, the first woman ever receiving the recognition. She would often recall her many “war stories,” including being present in uniform in Times Square on VJ Day, Aug. 15, 1945, in a “sea of ticker tape.” Besides being known for service to country and her strong Christian upbringing and faith, Charlotte had a wonderful and colorful sense of humor and a passionate and compassionate way of living, unafraid to break through traditional barriers or go against the grain.

In addition to her son and daughter-in-law, Charlotte is survived by her granddaughter Abigail Smith and husband Darréll of Laytonsville, Maryland, her great-granddaughters Addison and Ellie Smith, her grandson Joshua Stokes of Los Angeles, California, and her niece Carol Rios of Patchogue, New York.

At Charlotte’s request, there will be no calling hours or funeral service, although a graveside service with military honors is being planned for a later date. Gleeson-Ryan Funeral Home, Torrington, is in care of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, and recalling Charlotte’s fondness for cats and dogs, memorial contributions may be made to Animal Rescue Foundation, 366 Main St, Terryville, CT 06786.

To offer an online condolence, please visit www.gleesonryanfh.com.