Retired 1st Sgt. Charles H. Taylor Sr., a decorated veteran and longtime Richmond-area businessman, died Jan. 19 at age 92. Taylor, known as “Pop” or “Pop Taylor,” was with his wife of 40 years and his son-in-law at the time of his death. His celebration of life service took place Jan. 29.

Born July 4, 1932, Taylor was one of 11 children of John and Berneice Taylor. At 17, he joined the Army, following a family tradition of military service.

During his 20-year military career, Taylor served in Korea and Vietnam, earning three Bronze Stars and two Purple Hearts. He was among the last of the Buffalo Soldiers of the 24th Infantry Regiment, known for their distinctive all-black uniforms. His service took him to Fort Knox, Kentucky; Fort Stewart, Georgia; Japan; Fort Benning, Georgia; Fort Bragg, North Carolina; and Thailand.

After retiring from the military, Taylor worked as a foreman at Philip Morris before founding C.H. Taylor Oil Co. Inc. in 1976. The company became one of Richmond’s most recognized Black-owned businesses and operated for more than 40 years.

Taylor was also active in veterans’ organizations. He helped form the Military Retirees Club of Richmond in 1972 and co-founded Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10654 in 1976. In his honor, the retirees’ club established the First Sergeant (Ret.) Charles H. Taylor Legacy of Service Award.

A member of Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons, Mocha Temple, for more than 40 years, Taylor was also a longtime member of Providence Baptist Church.

Taylor was predeceased by his parents, a son, one sister and five brothers. He is survived by his wife, Doris S. Taylor; children Patricia Armstead, Crystal Hendricks and Charles Taylor Jr.; a devoted son-in-law, Vincent W. Langhorne; nine grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; four sisters and many extended family members and friends.