Clifford W. Taft

Clifford “Cliff” W. Taft, 79, of Millbury, 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 is survived by his longtime partner, Holly Thebeau; his brother Charlie Taft and his wife Anne; his sister Betty Burke and her husband Arthur; his daughters Karen Cote and her husband John, and Natasha Vargas-Taft; his son Mitchell Colón and his wife Ashley; Shannon Mayhew; and all of his cherished grandchildren. He was 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. He worked for many years 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 found lifelong joy in woodworking, creating beautiful pieces with quiet dedication. In warmer months he tended his garden alongside his daughter Natasha, and he cherished attending classic car shows with Mitchell, Ashley, and his grandchildren. He looked forward each year to Carnival cruise trips, often returning with new stories—especially when surprised aboard by Karen and John. Wednesdays were special “his day” with Karen, spent enjoying favorite foods and driving the memory-filled roads of Millbury. A loyal New England Patriots fan, he rarely missed a game, and Friday nights were for gathering family and friends at home for takeout, laughter, and good company. Those who knew him will remember his ever-present cooler stocked with Coors Light and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.