Robert Earl Gayman, Jr.

Robert Earl “Smokestacks” Gayman Jr., 76, of Orrstown, Pennsylvania, passed away on September 17, 2026.

Born June 26, 1950, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, Robert was the son of the late Robert Earl Gayman Sr. and Faye Elaine Russell Gayman Hopkins. Starting from a humble farming family, he helped around the Gayman farm providing at an early age. He spent his youth in Orrstown working for Jack Keltner, who owned Keltners Camping supplies. Orrstown was a place he could proudly call home. He later moved to Ohio to finish his High school career before being Drafted.

Robert proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from 1968 to 1979. He was stationed in Thailand with the 1974th COMM SQ. Following his military service, he continued a long career in service to his country as a civilian contractor for the department of defense, specializing in electronic-mechanical Communications, Crypto data terminal maintenance repair, and logistics. He continued his career working at several military installations including, Letterkenny Army Depot, New Cumberland Army Depot, and Mechanicsburg Naval Support Activity, where he worked on various Submarines such as the NR-1.

Robert was a man of many talents and interests. Everywhere he went he always had friends who loved and appreciated his down to earth spirit. A gifted artist, he loved to paint and and had a true eye for detail. He could draw and paint just about anything. Robert enjoyed literature, cooking, history, people, and adventures to many different places. He had a deep rooted connection to animals and the world. It seemed like no matter where he went he brought the joy and passion of life with him.

Another important part of Robert’s life was music. He loved playing the guitar. He was blessed with an excellent singing voice. His passion for blues, country and bluegrass defined his personality. Later after Robert’s retirement he loved to go to tractor and car shows, military reenactments, art shows, local fairs and gatherings. He could happily spend time pursuing his many hobbies and interests, always finding something that captured his curiosity.

Those who knew Robert will remember his mild-mannered, easygoing and fun-loving nature. He was grounded, sensible, intelligent and remarkably even-keeled. He loved and protected his family, and was an excellent father and husband. He was a loyal friend and a faithful companion. His kids adored him and thought the world of him. He was just as content quietly enjoying his hobbies as he was spending time with the people he loved. Hard work was always his nature, he believed that no matter what anyone could make something of themselves. He was a true blooded hardworking American Farmer and patriot. He loved his family, friends, and his country.

Robert is survived by his wife, of 25 years, Susan R. Cimini Gayman, whom he married on November 22, 2000, and his children, Grant G. Gayman of Orrstown, Pennsylvania, and William C. Gayman of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Earl Gayman Sr., and his mother, Faye Elaine Russell Gayman Hopkins.

Robert lived his life with a quiet strength, a steady hand, a creative spirit and a deep devotion to those he loved. To his family, he was much more than the many things he accomplished or the hobbies he enjoyed. He was their protector, companion, voice of reason and constant presence. The everyday kindnesses that came so naturally to him—and the love behind them—will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

A celebration of life will be held Monday, September 28, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. in the Fogelsanger-Bricker Funeral Home & Crematorium Inc., with Pastor William Kauffman officiating. Burial will be in Pleasant Hall Cemetery with military honors conducted by the Oscar M. Hykes American Legion Post # 223 Minutemen.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758817 Topeka, KS 66675 or Wounded Warrior Project.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.fogelsanger-brickerfuneralhome.com.