Barbara Taylor Obituary
She was born in Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, on August 29, 1944. Barbara was the beloved daughter of George and Helen Taylor. A woman of exceptional intellect and compassion, she devoted her life to helping others and inspiring those around her.
Barbara earned her Master's degree from Montclair State University and went on to complete her Doctorate in Psychology at Fordham University. She built a distinguished career as a licensed psychologist in both New York and New Jersey, maintaining a private practice for many years. She also served as a teacher and mentor, guiding countless students and colleagues with wisdom and grace.
Her dedication extended beyond her practice - Barbara was honored in Who's Who in America multiple times and served as a first responder for psychological emergencies in the New York metropolitan area. Her legacy is one of service, intellect, and compassion.
In retirement, Barbara returned to her Wisconsin roots, settling at her beloved lake house on Half Moon Lake, where she found joy watching eagles soar over the water.
She is survived by her daughter, Lara Cerutti; her son, Joseph Taylor Cerutti; and her grandchildren and great-grandchildren: Alexis Plaskon, Amber Taylor, Justin Cerutti, Quinn Cerutti, Bennett Wacaster, Cornelia Wacaster, and Theodore Taylor and Harrison Wacaster.
Barbara will be remembered for her brilliance, generosity, humor, and unwavering love for her family. She was a remarkable mother, grandmother, mentor, and friend - and to those who knew her best, she was irreplaceable.
A Funeral Service for Barbara will be held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025, with visitation at 1:00 p.m. and funeral service at 2:00 p.m. at Kolstad Family Funeral Home, Centuria, Wisconsin. She will be laid to rest following the service at the North Valley Cemetery
"And when the eagles soar above the lake, we will look to the sky and know she is free
4124 Ironbound Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188
People and places connected with Barbara
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Memories and Condolences
for Barbara Taylor
Tell your own story about Barbara
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.
How you can show support
Make a Donation
in Barbara Taylor's name
How to support Barbara's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Barbara Taylor's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
Sponsored