“Barbara Hohenstein Taylor was called home to be with the Lord on October 25, 2023,” her family wrote in a tribute. She was 81.

She died peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family. She was born April 7, 1942, to the late Willard F. Hohenstein and Ethel L. Weatherwax in Albany. She is a graduate of Guilderland High School.

“Barbara devoted her 32-year career to the New York State Department of Health,” her family wrote, “first as a senior laboratory technician in the Wadsworth Center, and later as a research scientist in the Tuberculosis Control Program.

“An avid reader, Barbara devoured all types of books. She loved spoiling her three cats and could often be found reading, covered in a purple blanket, with a purring cat in her lap.

“She enjoyed creating and spending time in her beautiful garden with her favorite lilies, providing an oasis for the cardinals and hummingbirds she adored.

“She loved visiting local antique shops seeking rare finds as she bought and sold precious antiques as the owner of Carousel Cottage Antiques in New Bern, North Carolina.

“Barbara’s life-long love of Elvis music included many years as the president of the local Elvis Presley Fan Club.”

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Barbara Hohenstein Taylor is survived by her loving husband Grant C. Taylor Sr. She was the cherished mother of Rasheeda Yvonne Khan (Adil), Lori Iarossi (Steve), Todd Lance, and Tony Lance.

She was the beloved grandmother of Rahila Beaudoin, Dane Moslander (Nicole), Adnan Khan (Zorina), Kelsey Moslander, Talib Khan, Joshua King, Ashley Zuercher (Kevin), Samantha Piel (Codey), Jessica Jeune (Kristopher), and Alexandra Lance.

Barbara was the treasured great-grandmother to MaryEllen Moslander, Mason Moslander, Rayyan Beaudoin, Addlyin Jeune, Deacon Piel, Zara Khan, and Zoey Zuercher. She was also a precious aunt, great-aunt, sister, cousin, and friend.

Her parents died before her, as did her brother, Philip Gene Hohenstein (Carolyn), and former husband, Charles Yerbury.

“The family deeply appreciates the staff of Craven County Hospice for the wonderful care and attention provided to Barbara and her family,” the tribute said.

Memorial contributions may be made to your local humane society.

A memorial service and celebration of life is planned for Sunday, April 7, at 3 p.m. at the Loudonville Community Church, 364 Loudon Rd. Loudonville, NY 12211.