After a courageous fight with cancer, Charles Taplin, 82, passed away peacefully June 15, in his home, surrounded by his wife and children. He was born in Farmington, Missouri on October 7, 1926, and grew up in Flat River, Missouri. He learned a strong work ethic at an early age while working in restaurants owned by his father and older siblings. After graduating from high school in 1944, he served in the U.S. Army, and married the love of his life, Leola Wommack in 1948. They made Springfield their home and he retired from SW Bell Telephone Company in 1978. He had a life-long dream of owning his own restaurant which was realized in 1973 when they bought what became known as Taplin's Drive-In and owned it until 1991. It was his successful business management that allowed him to retire early from the phone company. He was an active member of First Baptist Church, Springfield, and had served as a deacon and song leader in area churches for many years and led music in numerous revivals. He had a beautiful tenor voice, and although he had no formal music training he had a God-given musical ear that allowed him to sing, direct a choir and congregational singing with the skill of a professional musician. He had a quick wit, incredible sense of humor and an unforgettable personality. He is survived by Leola, his wife of 60 years, and three children, Brenda Taplin, Springfield; Bradley Taplin and wife Teresa, Bryan, Texas, and Jeffrey Taplin, Springfield; three grandchildren, Carrie and husband Rick, Bradley and wife Misty and Elizabeth; three great-grandchildren, Chloe, Braxton, and Ethan. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews. Visitation is Thursday, June 18 from 6 to 8 p.m. with memorial services on Friday, June 19 at 1 p.m. in Gorman-Scharpf Brentwood Chapel with Rev. Michael Overton officiating. If desired, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude's Children Hospital, PO Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929 or the charity of the donor's choice.