 The Very Reverend Charles G. Taylor “Father Chuck” 64 yrs. old of New Berlin, NY, rector
of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, New Berlin and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church, South New Berlin and Priest of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Norwich, NY, passed away as a result of a tragic accident on April 16, 2016 at his cottage on Chenango Lake, NY.
Fr. Chuck was born on October 12, 1951 at Miner’s Hospital in Spangler, PA , son of the late H. and D. Lois Taylor (Urbain). He grew up in Barnesboro, PA where his family owned and operated Taylor’s Bakery. Among his early memories were delivering bread with his grandfather. While growing up he attended Sunday School and served as an Acolyte at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, which was founded by the Taylor family. By the age of seven, Fr. Chuck knew that he wanted to be a priest. He graduated from Northern Cambria High School in 1969 where he played football, baseball and ran track. He also served as a member of the
Hope Fire Company in Barnesboro.
On January 1, 1972, Fr. Chuck and his wife Donna (Abrams) were married at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church and started their life together in Pittsburgh, with Bishop Appleyard’s blessing. He attended the University of Pittsburgh and pursued degrees in Psychology and Sociology, while Donna attended Bradford Business School in Pittsburgh. While in Pittsburgh, the young couple were active at the Church of Ascension in Oakland. As a Postulant preparing for
seminary, Fr. Chuck was privileged to train under the direction of Dr. William Bradbury and Fr. Dougherty. He was given the unique opportunity to give sermons which were broadcasted on live radio.
After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh, he worked for a year on the railroad (to save money for seminary) while also doing a one-year internship at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Johnstown, PA, under the direction of The Reverend Park Allis. He entered Bexley Hall Seminary in Rochester, New York in the Fall of 1974, graduating with his Master of Divinity degree on May 5, 1979. One of the highlights of their stay in Rochester began in 1977 when Fr. Chuck was accepted as
a “seminarian in training” at the Church of Ascension under the direction of The Reverend Albert Mahan.
While serving the Church of Ascension, Fr. Chuck and Donna’s first son, Scott Charles Taylor, was born on October 18, 1978. It was an honor and privilege for Fr. Chuck to assist Fr.Mahan in baptizing their son Scott. Fr. Chuck was ordained as a Deacon in the Diocese of Pittsburgh on June 9, 1979, and ordained as Priest on December 8, 1979. In the Fall of 1979, Bishop Appleyard asked him to return to the Diocese of Pittsburgh to serve St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in Barnesboro, PA
(his hometown church), and St. Luke’s Lutheran-Episcopal Church in Patton, PA. While serving in PA, Brett Aaron Taylor was born on August 17, 1982, and was baptized at St. Thomas’ Church by Bishop Appleyard.
On Palm Sunday, March 24, 1985, Fr. Chuck and his family accepted a position at St. Andrew’s and St. Matthew’s churches in New Berlin and South New Berlin, NY. He celebrated his 25th year serving the parishes in 2010. In honor of his 25 years, a gift of a cruise to Alaska
was given. Seven years ago Fr. Chuck became active in the pursuit of regional ministry. Emmanuel Church in Norwich was added to the churches he served. Many church activities are now a combination of all three churches. Fr. Chuck divided his time between New Berlin, South New Berlin and Norwich.
During his ministry Fr. Chuck faithfully served not only the three churches but also thecommunities and surrounding areas. He was proud to call his service to the community a “street ministry.” Fr. Chuck has performed innumerable marriages, funerals and baptisms for both parishioners, their families and others. His ministry to the elderly and local nursing homeswas very important to him; he loved them and they loved him in return. Fr. Chuck had a special passion for feeding the hungry and bringing the communities together. He ran the Unadilla Food Pantry housed at St. Andrew’s in New Berlin and started the free meal sponsored by area churches known as Chit, Chat & Chew. Fr. Chuck was instrumental in starting the Emmanuel Soul Kitchen which provides a free meal once a month at Emmanuel Church in Norwich. He spoke fondly of the people who attended.
Throughout his tenure, he served on numerous committees of the Episcopal Diocese of Central New York. Since 2010 he has served as the Diocesan Dean of the Chenango District. In addition to his church activities, Fr. Chuck servedas chaplain of the New Berlin Fire Department and chaplain of the football prep school Milford Academy. In the summer months he loved umpiring baseball games at Doubleday field in Cooperstown, NY. Fr. Chuck loved what he did and the people he served.
Fr. Chuck was a beloved husband, father and granddad. His family was his pride and joy and he counted his blessings every day. He and his wife Donna of 44 years loved music, dancing, taking long walks with his beloved dog Coal, and spending time at their cottage at Chenango
Lake. Fr. Chuck had a passion for hunting, fishing and the shooting sports. He cherished the time he spent afield with his sons Scott and Brett, teaching them the tools of the trade and taking in the beauty of the outdoors. He loved his bird hunts with Coal dog and his yearly
pilgrimage to western PA to deer hunt with his cousin Larry and family.
Fr. Chuck’s seven year old granddaughter Lyla June Taylor was the apple of his eye. At a very young age she would visit shut-ins and local nursing home residents with her devoted granddad. Charles G. Taylor was predeceased by his parents, Charles H. & D. Lois Taylor, infant brother, Wayne, & nephew Nicholas Paronish. He is survived by his wife Donna Taylor (Abrams), son Scott and partner Benjamin Orcutt, son Brett and fiancée Jeanette Ray, and granddaughter, Lyla
June Taylor, all of New Berlin, NY. Also survived by sister Wanda Doran and husband Bernie ofVicksburg, Mississippi as well as her three sons, Adam, Jason & Gary Paronish. A Celebration and Thanksgiving for the Life and Service of The Very Reverend Charles G. Taylor was held at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in New Berlin, NY on April 22, 2016. The Right Reverend Gladstone B. “Skip” Adams, III, was Celebrant.
A private interment of ashes willbe held at St. Andrew’s Cemetery at a later date. The arrangements were made by the Dakin Funeral Home LP of New Berlin, NY.
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Karl Olschesky
Altoona, PA
Father Chuck was my neighbor and one of my best friends growing up. I became aware of his death just recently when reviewing his class reunion on Facebook. I was privileged to be an usher at his wedding. My sincere condolences to Donna and family.
Jay Vorhies
Wilmington DE
I miss Father Chuck so much sundays just aren't the same i lost my partner of 15 years in December life just isn't the same and never will be.
Steve Freeman
Baltimore, MD
Dear Donna and family, I only learned of Chuck's tragic death this week (Sept. 7-10) while being in Cooperstown with members of the Orioles' Dream Week. Our deepest sympathy to you and your family. We truly enjoyed Chuck being one of the umpires in the past years of doing the tournament. May the Good Lord watch over you, your families and all his church members present and past! He is with Jesus our Savior!
Carolyn Nicastro
Pittsburgh, PA
I attended St. Thomas when Father Chuck was in residence, and I remember him and his family fondly.
My condolences to Donna, Scott and Ben, Brett, Jeanette, and Lyla.
Ed & Debbie Urbain
Manassas, VA
Donna and Family, Our deepest sympathy.. Thoughts and prayers at this most difficult time.
Jay Orosz
Northern Cambria
Sorry to here about chuck i played ball with him as a kid.its really bad when someone so good has toleave you donna so young i found out this morning how he died. i didnt hear about him till it was in the star i hope you are doing ok im sure the good lord has big plans for him your long time friend hope to see u someday.
Patricia Hoag Brinkman
Cookeville, Tenn
I was shocked to hear about Father Chuck. He was such a good man and really helped our family through the death of Jeremy Hoag and my husband Bob Hoag. I will for ever be indebted to him and his memory. Love you all and praying for your healing.
The Rev. & Mrs. Terry Sheldon
Clark Mills, NY
Shocked to learn of Chuck's unfortunate death. We shared our experiences of servicing three churches and would have worked together on a Cursillo Weekend that was canceled. The churches he served and the Diocese will deeply miss him as will we. Know that he will always be with us.
I am very sorry about the passing of Rev Taylor. Please accept my sincere condolence. May you find peace and comfort knowing very soon we can see our love ones again. For the Bible states "that there is going to be a resurrection" in Acts 24:15. So we may cry now because they are gone but we will cry even more when they return. But at that time "...death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore" (-Revelation 21:3,4 NWT) Please look forward to this happy time very soon.
Kim and Tanya Fazio
Tega Cay, South Carolina
Dearest Donna and family,
We are shocked and disheartened to hear of Fr. Chuck's passing. Our memories are brought back to Cursillo 32. His faith (and yours) in our Lord Jesus has helped sustained us. He was always a very 'special' person to be around. Hold on to all those memories you treasure. He now knows all the secrets of the universe. He now is in Heaven preparing rooms for all his loved ones!
With warm regards and condolences.
Bill and Nancy Beardslee
Fort Collins, Colorado
Dear Taylor Family,
A loss of indescribable proportions to your family, parish, and community. Charles was an extraordinary person and man.
His values and conduct for the parish will be impossible to replace.
Our heartfelt condolences
Kris and Art Martz
East Rochester NY
I remember when my Dad (Chs.Edwards)was on the nominating committee and how pleased he was that St Andrews had found a wonderful new minister. Our prayers are with you Donna and your family. Father Chuck was a true pillar of the community.
Nick Paronish and sons
Hastings PA
Our deepest sympathy Donna to you and your sons Scott and Bret . Words may lesson the sting but only time will heal your pain.
Becky Brown
West Oneonta, NY
Father Chuck I pray you were looking down from Heaven today and were able to witness the love expressed at your service. May your heart know how much you are loved and how thankful and blessed we are to have had you in our lives for the last 30 years. Your sons so beautifully expressed what so many of us have been thinking. You comforted us so many times over the years. Your love will forever be with us. Our grief is for our loss as we know that you are dancing on the golden streets of Heaven with Jesus. Until me meet again...
Pete & Carol Vail
Afton, NY
Dear Donna & family,
We were shocked and saddened by the news of Fr. Chuck's passing. Whether it was facilitating a Vestry retreat or overseeing one of his famous Pig Roasts, his presence added a special feeling to whatever he was involved in. Our prayer is that God's grace will comfort and strengthen you as you go through this difficult time. May God bless you.
Andrea Perkins Miller
Marshfield, Massachusetts
As I stood in the aisle of St. Andrew's during calling hours I looked up at the Tiffany angel window and was taken back by the immense sunlight pouring through the image. It was as if he was there with us.
David and Nancy Dibbell
South New Berlin, NY
Donna and family, our hearts are heavy as we know you are bearing such a deep and sudden loss. May there be comfort and guidance as you endure through such a difficult time, and our earnest prayer to God is for His mercy and direction upon all.
Bev Hettig
Penfield, NY
Donna, Scott, Brett,
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
This is a tremendous loss for the entire community.I have such wonderful memories of time spent with your family.
Much love to you all.
Mike & Joan Allen
New Berlin NY
Our thoughts are with you Donna and family, Father Chuck was truly a great man,
we did'nt lose a special person but gained a heavenly angel to look over his sheep.
Lynn Woodard
South New Berlin, NY
I awoke early the morning before Chuck's service.
When I took the dog outside I noticed a brilliant full moon in a clear sky.
We have a new star in the heavens.
I have never witnessed such an outpouring of love as we saw on South Main Street yesterday.
Eternal thanks to Chuck for all he did for so many.
We love you.
Beverly Butler
Mason City, Iowa
My thoughts and prayers are with you all, Donna, Scott, Brett, and Families, and Communities of New Berlin, South New Berlin, Norwich.
The testimony of Fr. Chuck's faith will continue to resonate across the area, and down through the years. May we continue to put our faith in the One in whom Fr. Chuck put his trust, as he would want us to do.
Rev. Lyle & Mary Ann Linder
New Berlin, NY
Our entire congregation at the New Berlin United Methodist Church grieves deeply at the loss of this wonderful fiend and Pastor Chuck. We share many years of happy memories that will not fade until we are reunited again in Heaven. We walk with you in this time of loss. Please accept our deepest sympathy, Pastors Lyle and Mary Ann Linder and our entire flock.+
Jeremy Crowley
Syracuse, New York
Taylor Family, My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this tough time. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Brian & Nancy Prentice
New Berlin NY
Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family at this difficult time. Cherish the memorie.
Fr Chuck will be greatly missed. Feel truly blessed to have known him.
Rebecca Weatherford
Greenbelt, MD
I pray that all the words of comfort that Fr. Chuck shared with others during the years, will come back to you and give you peace.
Bill Fredrickson
Tallahassee, FL
Donna, Scott & Brett,
On behalf of my family (Suzanne, Mathieu, Michaela & Martine) I send good thoughts and prayers in this difficult time. Jane and Freddy loved their St. Matthews family and I will always be grateful for everything Chuck and Donna did for them over the years.
Foster & Linda Button
Pittsfield NY
Donna and family. We are so sorry for loss. Chuck will be remember as a kind and caring person and a pillar of this community and will be greatly missed. Your in our thoughts and prayers .
John & Ron Ottesen
Norwich, NY
Dear Father Chuck,
In darkness you brought us light. We shared our prayers, Traded our wisdom and enjoyed our laughter. Your spirit has touched our hearts and shall forever remain. There is a new light in Heaven now to guide us. Goodbye, our friend, until sometime in eternity we shall meet again.
Jan Brown
Dubois, PA
Deeply sadden, you where and are a great friend and classmate.
Jayne Baker
New Berlin NY
Dear Donna, Scott and Brett, and your families. Words cannot hardly express how saddened I feel for you. I pray that God will ease your pain and grief and help you through these most difficult days ahead. Fr Chuck was such a wonderful man and he gave so much of his heart and love of God to all who knew him. Cherish your memories as his love will always be with you. Donna,you and Chuck and Your boys have always held a special place in my heart. I will miss seeing him . May God bless you.
Elaine Austin
Willow Street, PA
I have been away from New Berlin for nearly 50 years, but knew Father Chuck as my parent's priest.
He was wonderful to my both of my parents during the last years of their lives. Donna, Brett, and Scott, you are in my prayers
Harry and Chris Gabrielson
Patton, Pa.
We will remember Father Chuck with so many good memories.
Our sympathy and prayers go out to you at this very difficult time. May he rest in peace.
Doug and Carol Exley
Gilbertsville, NY
Donna and Family: We hope loving memories of your life with your beloved husband/dad will carry you through to times of peace.
Gerrie & Doug Miller
Verona N.Y.
Donna an Family It was with great sadness that Gerrie and I learned of the tragic accident an passing of Father Chuck. Father Chuck you Donna and family know how much your family has ment to the whole Todd & Miller families all these years. Father Chuck was a very special Priest that cared for his flock not only in the churches he served but the community as well in many many ways. Father Chuck an you touched so many lives through the years for the Christian good and we were all better off because of our relationship thru our Lord God. Gerrie and I are praying that God's Peace that passes understanding will be with the family to bring comfort in your time of need. God Bless.
Bob Smith
Norwich NY
I have known Father Chuck since my days in New Berlin as Mgr. of Victory Mkts there. He will be missed in a three communities. I left New Berlin many years ago and never made the connection until attending a Thanksgiving Service At Emmanuel in Norwich. I have been a member of First Baptist Norwich since my teen's and did not realize he had also come to Norwich, where I have lived for over 40+ years. One thing I have heard numerous times is of his boundless energy in serving the three communities of New Berlin, S New Berlin and Norwich. It will take a special person to fill his shoes. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers during this time of so sudden a loss.
Mark and Lynn Andersen
Lumberton NC
Fr. Chuck was one of the finest individuals I have ever known and for whom I worked. As organist for St. Andrews Episcopal Church for close to 10 years I knew him to be a true man of God in his actions, his spirituality, and the way he cared for all those around him. We were devastated at the news and wish our most humble prayers in support of Donna and the children as well as the Parish family. The world has lost a fine man, a fine Christian, and a true ambassador of Christ's church. Our heart is heavy for we loved him as a Pastor and as a human being.
Don & Vi Elliott
Titusville, Fl
For 31 years we have worshiped and prayed with Fr.Chuck thru happy and sad times. We have watched his family grow into adults and felt thankful for the wonderful work Donna did at our school. This is the saddest time of all and we want to let his family and the church family to know we praying for all of them. Our hearts are with you.
We will be seeing you all soon.
Regina Shortencarrier
Elmora, PA
Donna,Jim and I are so sorry to hear of this great loss.
You and your family have our heartfelt sympathy and prayers as you go through this difficult time.
Rev Bradford Keator
Chenango Christian Church
Norwich, NY
Our deepest of sympathy to the family, friends and church family. We are keeping vigilant prayers over you all in this difficult time.
As the Psalmist reminds us,
"Weeping may endure for a night,
But joy comes in the morning."
The Lord does, and will, heal the brokenhearted.
blessings,
Kurt & Patti Funke
So. New Berlin
Dear Donna, Scott and Brett,
Our deepest sympathies to you in this incredibly sad time. We are thankful for all Chuck gave to the community as a servant of God. We ask blessings of God's peace and strength to be upon you to help you through the days ahead. In His love, our thoughts and prayers remain with you...
The Gilbertsville Faith Community
Pastors Donna Steckline, Mark Piedmonte, Kurt Funke
Gilbertsville, NY
Our heartfelt condolences to the entire Taylor family and the family of churches which Father Chuck served for the Lord, so long and so well. We are one with you in our hope and faith that the Lord bless and sustain you in your time of great loss, and we will remain one with you in our thoughts and prayers.
Doug Wilson
Norwich, NY
As a funeral director, I had the pleasure of working with Fr. Chuck many times over the years. He was always a caring and compassionate professional. He was easy to work with and a very good friend. I will miss him in his capacity as Rector, but more so for his humanity.
Patricia and Carl Houghton
New Berlin, N.Y.
Dear Donna and family,
We were very much saddened to hear of the passing of you dear husband and father. His life was a wonderful example of Christian ministry to all he touched. Please know that our hearts, thoughts and prayers are with you for God's comfort and healing. Father Chuck will be greatly missed by all. May the Lord's blessings be with you always.
Doreen Sheridan
Sherburne, NY
May you rest with our lord on high.Sending healing prayers to the Family during this sorrowful time
Bryan & Ruthann Smith
Sherburne, NY
Our deepest sympathy goes out to Donna and the Taylor family. Unfortunately we have lost the nicest, kindest and most friendly man we had the pleasure of knowing. We loved delivering the Daily Star to Father Chuck in the early hours and having our daily chats. He always greeted us with his ever famous smile and wave even while walking his dog. God bless you all through these trying times.
Angie Lidell
New Berlin, NY
Our hearts are broken. Our questions flood us! Yet, we know Father Chuck will live inside all of us until we all meet again!
He touched the lives of so many. The love and support out- poured daily from his wisdom and heart.
Forever grateful to have known him amd be in his presence. Strong prayers to Donna, Scott, Brett and the entire family.
Katha Root
Greene, NY
So very saddened to hear of Father Chuck's passing. He was a wonderful man and he touched so many lives. As the Director for the Chenango County WIC Program, I worked with him on poverty issues in our county on several occasions. He was very supportive of the food pantries and soup kitchens in our area. Sending prayers to his family and church members.
Wendy Madden
New Berlin, NY
Debbie, Nick, and Jonathan ~
So sorry to hear abut your loss. We are thinking of you.
Marilyn Blanchard
Smyrna, NY
My heart goes out to the family of Father Chuck...so very saddened by this news...
I was fortunate to have known him.He always had a smile and kind word.i will miss him...God Bless his family and his many friends
Laurie Hotaling
Norwich, NY
My prayers are with you we all will miss him god has a grate man I WILL PRAY FOR THE ALL THE FAMILY AND HIS CHURCH FAMILY GOD BESS YOU.
Susan Lidell Klim
Altamont NY
Our family was so saddened to hear of Father Chuck's passing - what a tremendous loss for his family and the entire community. He was a comfort and inspiration for our family during times of joy and of sorrow. Our thoughts and prayers are with Donna and all his family.
Rev Barry & Susan Davis
West Winfield, NY
Sending our love and prayers to Donna and the family. May God provide you comfort and peace.
Diane Meredith
Walton, NY
To Donna and family,
My heart cries for you in this time of significant loss. I send my deepest condolences and will lift you all in special prayer. From our conversations I know you have the faith to celebrate the gift he was, and that faith will sustain you over the course of your journey. Please know that I and many others hold you in our hearts and minds.
Frances Gracyalny
Elmhurst, NY
My prayers are for you all.
Isaac J. McKown
Norwich, NY
May the Lord walk with you during this difficult time and give you peace in your heart and mind;
as your soul has been touched by such a wonderful man.
Larry Snyder
S. New Berlin, NY
.SORRY to hear about father chuck passing.a grate husband father and friend to all people.he meat,RIP.
Mona Waffle
Laurens, NY
I am so very sorry for your loss.
Everyone always had a wonderful word or story about this incredible man. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.
Lisa Moore
New Berlin, NY
To the family,
Never a nicer man than Father Chuck. He, Donna and I use to pass several times during the years walking our dogs.
Always had a hello and a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed by me and the community.
Eunice Prentice
New Berlin, N.Y.
Adrienne Hettig
New Berlin, NY
My heart and thoughts are with you.
Karen Hovick (Church)
Otego NY
My thoughts and payers are with your family. You will be missed by many. Thank you to father chuck for being there in times of need
and helping me when I needed it most. May you find peace in the kingdom of God.
Mrs. L. Salta
South New Berlin NY
I am so sorry for your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.
May all your happy memories get you through this difficult time.
Charlotte St. Pierre
Towson, Maryland
Very sad to hear of Father Chuck's passing. He was a support and comfort to my family during times of challenge.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Donna and the rest of his family.
Gina Perry
Albany, NY
Fr. Chuck thank you for your years of dedication to the New Berlin Community. You will be missed. My deepest sympathy to Donna, Scott, and Brett. Fr. Chuck did not just give to his own parish he gave to the New Berlin Community. He was a man with a generous heart and was a true Sheppard of God. His dedication to his vocation was much appreciated!
Gerard & Cindy Weis
Camden, NY
We are very saddened to hear about the passing of Father Chuck. It seems so unbelievable that he will no longer be an active part of the community; yet, what a beautiful legacy he leaves behind. The positive impact Father Chuck had on the surrounding communities will be remembered forever. Go rest high on that mountain Father Chuck as your work here on earth is done. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Donna and your family. May the peace of God be with you all.
Kitti & Ron Michalowicz
Kinston, NC
Thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time. I left the area before Father Chuck became Pastor of St. Andrews,
but I remember the care and kindness he showed my parents long after I was gone.
Darlene & Poppele
Bradyville, TN
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Father Chuck. Father Chuck was a wonderful person with a contagious laugh, and a genuine smile. When I joined the St. Matthews family in SNB many years ago, I was in a very sad place in my life. Father Chuck help me find my faith in God again. I do not know where I would be if he had not entered my life at the time. He was truly an angel in disguise. He will always hold a special place in my heart, and I am certain he holds many special places. He was just that kind of man. My heartfelt condolences to Donna and his sons. Rest Well Father Chuck and fly high. You certainly have earned your wings!
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