Dr. Barbara Ann Taylor PhD

Dr. Barbara Ann Taylor, Ph.D.

August 29, 1944 – October 8, 2025

Dr. Barbara Ann Taylor, Ph.D., of Half Moon Lake, Wisconsin, passed away peacefully at 3:58 p.m. on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, surrounded by love and family.

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