Clifford W. Taft

MILLBURY – Clifford “Cliff” W. Taft, 79, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, March 6th, surrounded by his loved ones. Born in Worcester, he was the son of Harry W. Taft and Mary G. Taft.

Cliff leaves behind his longtime partner, Holly Thebeau; his brother Charlie Taft, husband of Anne Taft; his sister Betty Burke, wife of Arthur Burke; his daughters Karen Cote, wife of John Cote, and Natasha Vargas-Taft; his son Mitchell Colón, husband of Ashley Colón; Shannon Mayhew; and all of his cherished grandchildren. He is predeceased by his sister Mary Taft, his daughter Tracy, his son Toby, and his beloved wife, T. Louise Taft, the love of his life.

A graduate of Millbury Memorial High School, Cliff proudly served in the United States Army during the Vietnam War. A devoted American and dedicated veteran, he continued to work hard throughout his life, holding positions at Bermans Motor Freight, Marine Oil, Armand Brakes Company, and Giroux Brothers before retiring.

Cliff and Louise shared a remarkable life rooted in generosity and compassion. Since 1978, they opened their home and hearts to approximately 5,000 foster children, all of whom affectionately knew Cliff as “Dad.”

Cliff had a lifelong passion for woodworking and spent countless peaceful hours creating beautiful pieces of craftsmanship. During the warmer months, he loved tending to his garden alongside his daughter Natasha. He found great joy in attending classic car shows with Mitchell, Ashley, and his grandchildren, and he treasured his annual Carnival cruise trips—always returning home with a new story to share, especially when surprised on board by his daughter Karen and son-in-law John.

Wednesdays were “his day” with his daughter Karen. Together, they spent the day enjoying whatever he was craving to eat and taking long drives down Millbury’s memory-filled roads. A loyal New England Patriots fan, Cliff rarely missed a game. Friday nights were often spent surrounded by family and friends, as he welcomed everyone into his home for takeout, laughter, and good company. Those who knew Cliff will fondly remember his ever-present cooler stocked with Coors Light and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

Cliff’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to the Worcester VA Home Health Care Team, the dedicated hospice staff at Metrowest, and especially Amy Morales, for their compassion and exceptional care.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Metrowest Hospice Team in recognition of their extraordinary support and kindness.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Cliff’s life on Saturday, March 14th, at Mulhane Home for Funerals, 45 N. Main Street, Millbury, MA 01527. Calling hours will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 12:00 p.m. A private burial will take place at a later date.

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If you wish to send flowers to these services, Mulhane Home for Funerals recommends contacting a local florist directly for the best experience and value.

Local Florist:

Floral Boutique 508-754-5637 www.floralboutiquemillbury.com 

Posies N Presents 508-581-4164 www.posiesnpresents.com