Danny Franklin Gayhart, 70, husband of Patricia H. Gayhart of Churchville, passed away Saturday, January 11, 2020 at his home.

Mr. Gayhart was born in Staunton, Virginia on May 23, 1949, a son of the late Melvin F. and Catherine "Tiny" (Rankin) Gayhart.

Danny served in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War and became a volunteer fireman with the Staunton Fire Department. He became a full time fireman in 1977 and retired in 2000 as a Lieutenant. Following retirement, Danny worked as the building maintenance supervisor for the Staunton Medical Center. He was an avid outdoorsman and especially enjoyed hunting and fishing. Danny loved spending time with his family and his grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother-in-law, Bobby Lobdell.

Surviving in addition to his wife of forty years, are his children, David Gayhart (Dawn) of Bridgewater, Danielle Gayhart, and David Taylor (Amy) both of Staunton; three grandchildren, Matthew and Lily Gayhart and Catherine Taylor Wilson; a great grandchild, Xander Wilson; three sisters, Debbie Lobdell, Lindy Greaver (Dale), and Sue Chapman (Gary); and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 15, 2020 in the Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory and other times at the residence.

A Celebration of Life will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, January 16, 2020 in the Coffman Funeral Home Chapel by Reverend Zach Franklin.

Burial will be follow in Oaklawn Memory Gardens.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made, in Danny's memory, to the City of Staunton Fire Department, 500 North Augusta Street, Staunton, Virginia 24401 or your local animal shelter.

Coffman Funeral Home and Crematory, 230 Frontier Drive, Staunton, is in charge of his arrangements.