Charles Nelson Taulbee

Charles "Charlie" Nelson Taulbee of Farmington, New Mexico died peacefully at his home on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at the age of 94. He was born in Gilbert, Arizona on May 29, 1931 to Hartley and Lottie (Goddard) Taulbee. 

Charlie had a passion for gardening as well as many other outdoor activities. His kids fondly remember some of their favorites being bird watching, mushroom hunting in the mountains of Colorado, piñon picking, metal detecting and having picnics in the hills. Charlie was an avid reader and liked learning about new things. When he became interested in a subject, he was all in. One such interest was the homemade sourdough starter that he perfected 22 years ago, which still lives on and has been propagated and shared as far away as Illinois and Virginia.

Later in life, Charlie told many stories about growing up in Kingman, Arizona and Farmington, New Mexico. Each moment was a memory; a remembrance of times gone but not forgotten. He also loved music. We all shared hours of watching his favorite music videos and singing along to his favorite songs.

Charlie was a loyal employee of El Paso Natural Gas for 40 years. He loved his job as a Dispatcher/Controller and made many lifelong friends during those years. His work ethic was an example to his family and colleagues. He also "moonlighted" at Dizzyland Liquors for many years. Charlie had a unique sense of humor that could catch you off guard; always leaving you laughing or just shaking your head.

Charlie was always looking out for others and happily befriended outsiders. He was a great friend to animals, both wild and tame. He loved all dogs, most birds and some cats. Charlie also oversaw and maintained the irrigation water in his subdivision for many years. The job allowed him to get to know his neighbors, some of whom became good friends.Thank you Jackie for your faithful friendship.

Charlie is survived by his sister Virginia Grossnickle, son Charles "Chic" Taulbee (Carol), daughters Connie Hooker (Roger), Cory Harper (Brian), Cecilia Taulbee-Leaming (Monica) and Perla Kennedy (Shefdan). Grandchildren include Jared Marquis, Justin Marquis, Amanda Hooker, Sara Dennison, Austin Harper, Lara Thomas, Claire Fox, Rachel Taulbee, Sophia Faber, Ava Kennedy, Mya Kennedy and Emy Kennedy, multiple great grandchildren and several great-great grandchildren. Charlie was preceded in death by his wife Charlotte in 1982, and his brother Carl Richard Taulbee, Sr. in 2003.

Final arrangements are being handled by Farmington Funeral Home.

The memorial reception will be held on Saturday, October 25 at Tibbetts Middle School at 12:00 p.m. Please feel free to join the family to celebrate Charlie's life well-lived. Lunch will be provided.

A private family service will take place at a later date.